Yousra Assali

Champions Trust Regional Representative for Middle East and North Africa

When Yousra Assali from Tanger in Morocco was a small girl, she was fascinated by technology. She thought it was a form of magic. As she grew older, she fed that interest by reading books about inventions and technology. She saw herself building things, fixing problems, and dreamt of a future where she would create something that would earn her awards and recognition.

She joined mechatronics at the Vocational Training and Occupational Promotion Bureau (OFPPT), Morocco’s public network for VET education. Soon after, one of her teachers discovered her talent in electronics, convincing her to pursue the skill further and compete at WorldSkills. She made it to the nationals and eventually represented Morocco at WorldSkills Kazan 2019.

After the Competition, she applied to be part of the WorldSkills Champions Trust. She has served as a representative for Mena from 2019-22, and was recently selected as a returning representative for the term 2023-24. Her goal is to inspire other young people – particularly other women in Africa – to believe in themselves and follow their passion. Yousra is also an advocate for youth participation in policymaking and believes that governments should trust young people to be part of decision-making processes. Currently she is pursuing her Masters, degree at Mohammed V University in Rabat.

We interviewed Yousra when she first joined the Champions Trust in 2019. The interview is archived and her views might have changed. 

When did you know that your skill lit a spark in you that other professions didn't?
When I was a child, I was always passionate about Technology and the High-Tech industry. I loved reading books about invention and technological things. I always saw myself creating things and fixing problems. When I just joined my institute, I met my teacher who took my hand and help to discover more my skills and to further my passion. At this moment I knew that Electronics is my skills and passion and I would do something unique with it.
 
What is your favourite WorldSkills memory?
WorldSkills creates many unforgettable memories that I have always loved to remember.
My best is totally the Opening Ceremony during the parade of nations. It was a moment full of full of joy while passing in front of all the nations, at that time I was really proud of myself and said “ I’ve done it, I could represent my country in Electronics”.
 
Why is being part of WorldSkills important after your competition is over?
For me, WorldSkills is not just a one-week Competition, but a global foundation and movement to help developing countries through the power of skills. Improving lives and building innovative and sustainable activities around the world. As a Champion I want to share with the world my passion and ideas to help others. Inspire young people to follow their skills and change their lives with power of skills and to be surrounded by the best.
 
What would you tell your 12-year-old self about your future?
I always like to look at my life and think if I am satisfied. If I could say something to my 12-year-old self I would say “Don’t worry, your hard work will pay off and you will have a bright, successful future. Many opportunities are going to open up for you. You will start achieving your dreams one by one and you will be really proud of yourself over the years”.
 
What do you want senior policy makers to know about skilled jobs and skilled professionals?
Skilled jobs and skilled professionals are very rich. If all companies have needs, depending on their strategy, their target, their identity, they will not be based on the same methods. It is for this reason that senior policy makers have to know about skills, qualifications, and proficiencies.