People of Pro Bono: Antoine Clément

Read how this software developer became a pro bono advocate and inspired coworkers to give back.

Dec 3rd, 2019 Global, People of Pro Bono, Social Impact, Technology, Volunteer Consulting

An experienced software developer, Antoine is a long-time advocate for pro bono service. He has not only personally donated over 200 hours of pro bono support but, inspired by the reach and impact of skilled volunteering, has also kick-started a pro bono program at his company.

A call to serve

Growing up, I wanted to be a king—not because I was obsessed with power, but my deep desire to serve the community. For me the connection between leadership and service is inherent, to be a leader one must serve his or her community to the best of their ability. My greatest professional skills may lie in empathy, enthusiasm, development, and SEO but I draw the most inspiration from creating links between people and seeing those connections create a more sustainable world.

From a software developer to a pro bono advocate

At work I found myself sharing my pro bono experience with my coworkers over lunch—revealing how donating my professional skills to nonprofits was better equipping them to solve pressing social issues. Eventually, these short, lunch break conversations turned into full-on discussions. Inspired by my colleagues growing interest in giving back, I initiated a pro bono program at my company. Today, as head of the pro bono program for SAP France, more than 135 of my colleagues have donated their expertise to over 25 social enterprises.

Join me

To all the skilled professionals thinking about making a difference through pro bono, do it! Helping nonprofits through pro bono not only gives you the chance to support a noble cause but the opportunity to create a legacy. And you may just inspire others to give back as well! I’d recommend turning to Taproot Foundation as a great source of inspiration. Their case studies and stories are a great source of motivation and guidance for giving back through pro bono. Get involved today—everyone can help and all skills are valuable.

It has truly been an honor to personally donate over 200 hours of pro bono support to nonprofits and motivate my colleagues to get involved. I celebrate the kindness, professionalism, and commitment of all the social good organizations I’ve collaborated with along the way. I’d like to thank them all for their unwavering bravery in tackling the world’s most challenging issues.