The People Making Things Possible – Temitope

As part of Volunteers’ Week, we’re shining a light on Temitope Pupuru—one of REMAP’s dedicated volunteers—who shares how giving her time has made a difference in others’ lives, and her own.

I served for 11 months as a Volunteer Engineer and recently took on the role of Case Manager for the Dundee, Perth & Kinross region. My main duties involve designing and creating bespoke assistive devices tailored to individual client needs, while also managing new referrals, liaising with healthcare professionals, and coordinating volunteer engagement across the region. I help match the right engineers to the right cases, manage the project initiation to project delivery process and ensure our clients receive timely and effective support.

Making a Difference

We developed a finger support aid for a client who was a guitar player, had lost some control of his fingers and struggled to play his guitar. To create a simple, yet effective assistive aid, we used 3D technology to design and print a simple finger support that aided his fingers and housed his guitar pick. That was my first project, thanks to Bob, my line manager who trusted me with the project even when I’d only just started and was unsure of the outcome.

I remember the happy face of the client while he played his guitar at the final fitting and I hid my tears because that moment was priceless.  

I am currently on a project where meeting with the client extends beyond just fitting the assisting aid to long conversations about his experience and the activities he hopes to get back on. This is not just about engineering skills but actually making a difference with every contact. On my last visit, he acknowledged that I have been a good listener to him and he was appreciative. Their feedback was heartfelt and reminded me of the transformational power of human connections and the hope it brings.

Impact of Volunteering with REMAP

Volunteering with REMAP has been deeply fulfilling. It gives me a sense of purpose beyond my regular work, and a chance to see the real-world impact of my skills. Every case is a new challenge and an opportunity to grow, learn, and collaborate with brilliant, like-minded people. Most importantly, it reaffirms why I chose a career in engineering in the first place: to solve problems and improve the quality of life of patients.

I would wholeheartedly recommend being a REMAP volunteer to others. Whether you’re an experienced or an aspiring engineer, REMAP provides an incredible platform to use your skills for good. It’s a unique volunteering experience because you’re not only helping others, you’re also developing personally and professionally. The creativity involved, the direct community impact, and the collaboration among volunteers make it an experience unlike any other.

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If you’re interested in making a difference, like Temitope, find out how you can get involved.