IEEE WIE Distinguished Volunteer and Mentor series highlights a dedicated WIE volunteer who is well known for his/her notable contribution to IEEE WIE.

In this issue, we feature Baya Bouchaala. 

IEEE WIE: How has your experience with IEEE WIE shaped your career and personal growth?

Bouchaala: Four years ago, IEEE Women in Engineering changed my life and ever since, I’ve promised myself to give back to a community that has already given me so much. My experience with WIE has been truly transformative. It has played a significant role in shaping both my career and personal growth, helping me evolve into a confident young professional and dedicated volunteer. Being part of WIE remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my life an enduring source of inspiration and empowerment that continues to guide me as I grow, both personally and professionally.

Through WIE, I’ve had the privilege of meeting remarkable women and hearing inspiring stories from around the globe. These connections have not only broadened my professional network but also strengthened my motivation to pursue excellence. The global community and the rich exchange of ideas, cultures, and experiences have expanded my perspective and deepened my passion for leadership and collaboration.

Taking on leadership roles first as a student and now as a professional has significantly boosted my confidence. I’ve grown into someone who takes initiative, leads meaningful projects, and contributes at both national and international levels. Working alongside strong, driven women from around the world has challenged and inspired me in ways I never imagined.

Thanks to WIE, I’ve discovered the true value of connection, mentorship, and collaboration and for that, I’m deeply grateful.

IEEE WIE: What innovative projects or initiatives are you currently working on that you believe will make a significant impact?

Bouchaala: I had the privilege of Initiating the Women in Engineering Annual Congress of Tunisia, a milestone that fueled my commitment to making STEM more inclusive and accessible. Today, this congress has grown into a successful annual event, organized each year by a dedicated WIE unit in our country. Currently, I’m involved in several initiatives aimed at expanding STEM opportunities, especially for young women. One of the most impactful is the SMART program, which we are working to implement more broadly to help students and professionals build confidence, set clear goals, and navigate their careers with purpose.

In addition, I’m actively involved in hosting informal Women in Engineering Talks featuring inspiring leaders from diverse technical fields. These sessions go beyond storytelling they spark meaningful discussions on collaboration and growth, with each speaker bringing fresh insights that motivate and empower us.

I’m also focused on expanding the STAR program, which offers hands-on technical workshops for young talents. Each workshop centers around a specific technical domain whether coding, robotics, or electronics to ignite curiosity and inspire a genuine interest in our STEM field.

IEEE WIE: Can you share a moment when you overcame a significant challenge in your professional journey and what you learned from it?

Bouchaala: Transitioning from engineering student to professional was challenging. At first, adjusting to the fast pace and expectations of the workplace required effort. My schedule quickly filled with new responsibilities, ongoing volunteer commitments, and personal goals all happening at once. I had to learn to manage my time effectively while continuing to embrace my passion for volunteerism, which continues to energize and inspire me.

Applying academic knowledge to these open-ended challenges wasn’t easy at first. To adapt, I asked questions, learned from experienced engineers, and focused on understanding the bigger picture of the project. My volunteer experience, where I often worked in teams and led initiatives, helped me collaborate and communicate effectively in the professional environment.

As a woman in STEM, I also faced external doubts and pressures to pursue more “suitable” fields. But staying true to my passion for engineering helped me build resilience and a strong sense of purpose. This journey taught me that the beginning is often the hardest, and with focus, support, and persistence especially within a collaborative work environment it’s possible to grow, contribute, and build lasting confidence in your role.

IEEE WIE: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in your field?

Bouchaala: I stay current through continuous learning, IEEE involvement, LinkedIn, webinars, and conferences. Global volunteer networks connect me with experts worldwide, broadening my perspective and keeping me ahead.

IEEE WIE: What role do you think mentorship plays in the success of young professionals, and how do you approach mentoring others?

Bouchaala: Mentorship plays a fundamental role in the success of young professionals. When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of your direction. Having someone who can guide, encourage, and share real-life experiences makes a huge difference. Mentorship helps build confidence, provides perspective, and creates a sense of belonging in a professional community.

Personally, I’ve been fortunate to receive mentorship from inspiring individuals who helped me find clarity in moments of doubt and encouraged me to take on new challenges. Their guidance helped shape my growth as a student, a young professional, and a volunteer.

While I am still early in my own career, I’ve started giving back by mentoring a few students sharing my experiences, helping them navigate decisions, and encouraging them to believe in their potential. I’ve found that even small conversations can have a big impact. I approach mentorship with empathy, active listening, and the goal of being a supportive presence, just like my mentors were for me.

I truly believe that mentorship doesn’t have to wait until you’re an expert. It’s about being honest, available, and willing to help others grow.