Civic engagement and open-source investigation: Hesham Moadamani ‘21 joins Bard College Berlin staff in the Office of Civic Engagement

Hesham Moadamani, a 2021 BCB graduate, has recently joined the college’s full-time staff as the Civic Engagement and OSUN Coordination Officer. He brings with him experience in open-source research at international civil society organizations that he plans to share with students this semester.

“I’m truly excited to return to BCB, a place that shaped my academic journey and personal growth,” Hesham says. “Being part of BCB’s diverse community again feels like a homecoming.” He has already been inspired, he says, by the energy and passion from faculty, staff, and students in tackling both global and local challenges. 

As part of his role at BCB, Hesham will be working with students involved in Civic Engagement initiatives. In addition to the 2024 Civic Engagement Fellows and student project leaders, Hesham notes that the BCB community as a whole is “incredibly driven to make an impact,” and he is eager to support their initiatives.

What advice does Hesham have for students interested in starting a civic engagement project? “Start small,” he advises. “It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of global challenges, but impactful actions often begin with modest steps. Over time, collective small actions can grow and have a global impact, inspiring hope where it’s needed most.” 

Another route to working on civic engagement projects that Hesham recommends is to look for existing projects that align with your values and goals: “You can add your touch while contributing to something already making a difference.”

Hesham’s unique position as an alumnus gives him a valuable perspective when working with students. “I understand firsthand the value of the education here—the critical thinking, global perspective, and emphasis on social responsibility,” he explains. “My work in Berlin and on international projects has shown me just how urgently the world needs people with these skills.”

On November 2, Hesham will co-host a full-day workshop for students about open-source research for human rights. The workshop will also examine misinformation, particularly around elections and hate. “In my experience,” he says, “I’ve seen how social media can be a double-edged sword. While it provides access to raw, unfiltered information, it also amplifies disinformation and propaganda. Much of what we consume is either unchecked or deliberately manipulative, shaping our beliefs in ways we might not realize. I want to help students navigate this landscape.” 

In conclusion, Hesham notes, “BCB has always been a space where critical thinking and open dialogue thrive, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that spirit by fostering connections between students and the world around us. It's a privilege to help students turn their ideas into real actions and create positive change, both within our community and beyond.”

Learn more about Bard College Berlin’s Civic Engagement initiatives here.

By: Sophia Paudel, Bard College Berlin Communications

Post Date: 09-26-2024