Noel – Architectural BIM modeler

Can you PLEASE introduce yourself?

My name is Noel and I am a BIM modeller in architecture at SYSTRA Dubai. I was born and raised in Rwanda, where I received a government scholarship to study in the United Arab Emirates. After completing my studies, I had the opportunity to join SYSTRA Dubai as a BIM modeller.

Why did you choose to join the Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) project and what have you learned from it?

I chose to join Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) because it perfectly matched my personal aim, which is to give back to my home country what it has given me. I have always wanted to use my skills in engineering and architecture to improve the lives of isolated communities. This project was the ideal way to make a direct impact while also representing both SYSTRA and Rwanda.

What impact did the Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) experience have on your personal and professional life?

The Bridges to Prosperity (B2P) experience truly changed my life. Since SYSTRA is a partner of B2P, it was the perfect opportunity to go back home and contribute to the development of my community. I had the honour of being selected among 10 colleagues from SYSTRA worldwide to build a 65-metre suspension bridge in Rwanda. Working alongside my Rwandan compatriots on a project that directly improves living conditions has been incredibly rewarding. This bridge now connects two regions, allowing people to access markets, children to go to school, and families to stay in touch.

From a personal standpoint, this experience allowed me to realise my dream of using my skills to make a positive impact on my community. Seeing my family present at the inauguration, proud of my contribution, was deeply rewarding.

On a professional level, I gained hands-on experience in bridge construction, a new and valuable learning experience. I also improved my teamwork and communication skills, especially since I was the only Rwandan on the SYSTRA team. This meant I had to serve as a bridge between my colleagues at SYSTRA and the local workers, which helped to foster a strong personal and professional connection with both groups.

Why does this project hold such personal significance for you?

This project was deeply personal because it allowed me to return home and contribute to the development of Rwanda in a meaningful way. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how a lack of infrastructure can isolate communities, and being able to help bridge that gap, both literally and figuratively, has been incredibly rewarding.

Beyond B2P, I am also involved in ‘Engineering 4 Kids‘, an initiative launched by SYSTRA to teach engineering to children through interactive games. This experience has strengthened my passion for education and community engagement, motivating me to continue finding ways to make engineering accessible and useful to future generations.