Amid of the Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX2025), one feature stands out as unmistakably distinctive: the presence of highly organised young volunteers across every hall and exhibition space.
Their discipline, cooperation and unwavering willingness to assist exhibitors, guests and visitors have become a hallmark of the event.
Wherever one turns, there are volunteers offering help with a smile — whether guiding attendees to specific locations or providing on-the-spot translation, regardless of the language or its complexity.
A closer look reveals that these young men and women are volunteers coordinated through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, selected through a series of rigorous assessments including language examinations, personal interviews and intensive training programmes tailored to the demands of their roles.
Among them is Bouthaina Dargham, an articulate and confident lead professionalism and precision have earned her recognition.
She explained that she has participated in all four editions of EDEX, gaining invaluable practical experience, cultural exposure and linguistic skills through her continued involvement.
Another volunteer, Karim Maher, is an engineering graduate keen to pursue a career in media.
He has taken part in the organisation of various international political and sporting events, and continues to develop his competencies through multiple training courses.
He emphasised that his greatest gains from volunteering have been self-development, cultural exchange, and the building of lasting relationships and friendships.
He noted that language assessments are conducted at the Armed Forces Language Institute, followed by workshops and training sessions aimed at enhancing the volunteers’ preparedness.
Also among the dedicated group is Patric Georges, who has contributed to the last three editions of EDEX.
He highlighted the strong co-operation between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Defence in refining volunteers’ skills, addressing challenges and improving procedures from one edition to the next.
He also praised the formal recognition volunteers receive, often presented in the presence of the Minister of Defence and the Minister of Youth and Sports.
Among them is Patric Georges who, alongside his volunteering at Edex, manages his family business, explained that his volunteer work opened the door for him to join the Egyptian Youth Diplomacy Programme, where he was part of the first cohort.
The programme has now reached its third intake, and he stressed that a key component of the training is the transfer of experience, with senior volunteers sharing what they have learned with newcomers.
Model of youth empowerment the commitment of these young volunteers reflects a broader, deliberate effort to empower Egyptian youth through structured training, exposure to international environments and opportunities for personal growth.
In line with the Presidential Initiative for Human Development, their role at EDEX represents a practical and tangible application of this vision.
Their presence not only enhances the visitor experience but also showcases a successful national model for developing capable, confident and globally aware young leaders.
