Become a volunteer in IDA

What does it mean to volunteer in Denmark?

Denmark has a strong tradition of volunteering. Many professionals contribute their time to professional associations, local communities and non-profit organisations. Volunteering is a great way to expand your network, gain insights into Danish workplace culture and build connections beyond your workplace.

As an international professional, volunteering can help you:

• Build your professional network in Denmark
• Practice communication across cultures
• Gain experience with Danish workplace and meeting culture
• Meet people outside your company
• Strengthen your CV with leadership and project experience

Why volunteer in IDA?

IDA is largely a member-driven association with more than 1,850 volunteers who make a huge difference for all IDA's members.

By volunteering in IDA, you get a unique opportunity to share your knowledge with other STEM professionals and impact the community of which you are a part.

Here's what you'll gain from being a volunteer:

• A strong network outside your workplace
• Skills in communication, management, facilitation and presentation - among other things
• Meeting peers from the academic world and the business community
• A chance to stay up to date with trends in your industry or field
• You get to make a difference for other members in IDA.
• Gain political influence in IDA.

What will I do as a volunteer?

IDA's volunteers are engaged in everything from community boards to academic clubs and mentoring. At IDA, there are many functions where you can be of value:

Create events in IDA's communities: As a volunteer in IDA's communities, you help plan and carry out events and after-work meetings. IDA offers you practical assistance and support for carrying out the event. Get in touch with us via our forms to hear about the possibilities of getting involved in events, after-work meetings and trips.

Use the forms link to contact IDA

Become a mentor for other members: Make a positive difference for another member by sharing your experience, asking questions and listening. IDA's mentor programme consists of 1:1 meetings and help you expand your perspective and grow your communication and management skills.

Make a difference by becoming a mentor here

Organise your workplace and make a difference for your colleagues: you can part of negotiating good working conditions for your colleagues as an trade union representative. You can also arrange networks or events at your workplace. Please look at our guide for organising in the workplace.

If you're interested in becoming a union representative at your workplace, you can contact business consultant Marie Schmidt Sørensen at msn@ida.dk or 33 18 47 10 to hear more.

Run for election as an IDA politician and gain influence in IDA: Would you like to be involved in IDA's political organisation? You can read about IDA's political bodies and find contact details to learn more here: IDA's political organisation

Can I volunteer if I don't speak Danish?

Yes. Many volunteer roles can be carried out in English, and several IDA communities already include international members. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, we will help match you with opportunities where English is welcomed.

How much time does it take to volunteer in IDA?

Volunteering in IDA can range from helping organise a single event to being part of a committee or network on an ongoing basis. Together we will find a level of involvement that fits your schedule.