Member Testimonial: Kamal Raj

Joining the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) was a natural choice for me as a passionate solid waste professional. From the moment I discovered ISWA, I recognized it as the epicentre of global activities in waste management—a place where aspiring individuals to seasoned organizations come together to solve waste management challenges across the world.  

ISWA has proven to be a transformative one, fuelling my passion for waste management and propelling me toward becoming a change agent in this critical field. ISWA’s commitment to creating a global network of waste professionals, their dedication to nurturing young talent through the YPG program and Working Groups, and the unparalleled experience of attending the Annual World Congress—all of these elements have solidified my belief in ISWA.  

I was introduced to ISWA at the IFAT event in Germany in 2016 and joined immediately. ISWA has been a game-changer for my professional development.  One of the standout experiences has been the Young Professionals Group (YPG) program. Through YPG, I have connected with fellow waste management enthusiasts who share my drive and ambition. The platform has allowed us to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and collaborate on projects that make a real difference. The highlight of my involvement was the honour of co-chairing the YPG, where I sharpened my skills in working with professionals from diverse cultural backgrounds. 

ISWA’s generosity extended even further with the SWIS Winter School. This exceptional opportunity greatly enriched my technical knowledge in landfill management and gave me insights into the American waste management landscape. Empowered by this newfound expertise, I co-created a business vertical in the USA, guiding waste management companies through their digital transformation journey.  

Being part of ISWA has been a great experience, teaching me invaluable lessons in creating global coalitions and solidarity groups for effective waste management action. Waste pollution knows no boundaries, and ISWA has shown me the power of collaboration in tackling this common global challenge. 

Through active participation in ISWA’s working groups and the Young Professionals Group (YPG), I have gained geography-specific knowledge in solid waste management (SWM) that has propelled my career. The wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives within these groups has broadened my understanding of SWM practices worldwide. 

Attending the ISWA Congress has been a highlight of my journey, providing a platform for meeting like-minded professionals and fostering the exchange of ideas. These encounters have not only enriched my knowledge but also facilitated key hires for my team and collaborations with some of the best minds in the industry.

ISWA has proven to be a global classroom, where I have learned the importance of global solidarity, gained specific SWM insights, and built a strong network of professionals passionate about making a positive impact on waste management. 

I firmly believe that ISWA can continue to play a vital role in my professional growth. As an individual member, I have taken the next step by ensuring that my current organization becomes a silver member, providing my team with access to the multitude of benefits that ISWA offers. Just as ISWA has been instrumental in shaping my career, I am excited to help my team leverage this incredible resource for their own development. 

In my role as Director of Impact Projects, my focus is on collaborating and funding innovative solutions to combat plastic pollution worldwide. I see ISWA as a valuable connector, bridging the gap between organizations working towards this common goal. By tapping into the extensive network and resources of ISWA, I hope to forge partnerships with like-minded organizations and drive impactful change in the fight against plastic pollution.