Steady Steps Toward Professionalism and Integrity
I need to clarify something very important. For nearly nine years now, I’ve been moving forward with steady steps in a very clear direction. My goals and ambitions are sacred to me. With God’s help, and through what I’ve learned — knowledge, ideas, methods, wisdom — along with the professionalism I’ve built over the years and an army of advisors who never took a single dinar from me, I’ve kept walking this path.
I’ve moved forward with integrity and professionalism, and it has never been proven that I’ve embezzled, deceived, manipulated, or lied. There have been many rumors and much talk, but in the end, only work and sincerity remain. Those who spoke have either gone silent, felt ashamed, or realized they were wrong. Despite all circumstances — I continue.
A few months ago, I found an old external hard drive that I hadn’t used since 2015 — the year I consider the most disappointing of my life. Inside, I discovered a Word file titled “Goal: The Libyan Technology Foundation,” describing a large community-based organization that brings together expertise and talent, built methodically and institutionally, with a professional team, projects, and responsibilities. I couldn’t bring myself to open the file — afraid I might have fallen short of such a grand vision. But, praise be to God, for what has been achieved and for what is yet to come.
I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far. There have been many mistakes along the way, but the best is yet to come, God willing. I’ve learned lessons in diplomacy, objective thinking, sacrifice, and maintaining relationships despite the constant changes in Libya — and to be a source of change, even when I struggle to change myself.
Behind every post, project, and achievement, there’s hard work, sweat, effort, money, sacrifice, pain, and sometimes health loss. There have been threats, warnings, losses, and the pain of losing friends or peace of mind. I’ve gone through many challenges and tragedies — all recorded in a steel memory and stored safely.
Generous job offers, contracts, grants, bribes, and temptations — yet, by God’s grace, I came through it all safely, as if holding burning coals in my hands.
Today, one official said to me:
“We could say that you’re difficult, not suitable for us, and don’t understand our Libyan-style management — but you are a technical, professional person with clean hands. You audit your budgets precisely, and every dinar you receive, you turn into ten spent for the public good.”
This was a kind message that I now pass on to my team at the Libyan Technology Foundation.
Yesterday, I was explaining to my professional interns that what I do is closest to what’s called Technology Management — meaning, I don’t have to be an expert in databases, networks, or cybersecurity, but I can speak the language of technology in terms of its management, priorities, best practices, and applications.
Behind every project or post is a Libyan citizen walking on land full of mines — with the constant risk of favoritism, corruption, greed, and pressure from various authorities and entities.
All these accomplishments didn’t come by luck or coincidence. To those who think so, I say: they came from waking up early, sleeping late, pushing through physical and mental exhaustion, and spending personal resources — financially and emotionally.
Every day, I face no fewer than three discouraging challenges — especially on Sundays. Yet, I keep reminding myself:
“Assume the organization was founded yesterday; look at the progress made, and start from there.”
Our foundation may not always appear active publicly, but I can tell you this — it collaborates with over 20 governmental bodies, 30 private companies, 75 experts, and a team of more than 10 employees and managers, plus a network of advisors, across 17 ongoing projects.
We’re not in conflict with anyone — not with a company, authority, ministry, or sector. Our role is civil society — even if the term is misunderstood locally. We’ve been the exception that proved the rule.
Our role is complementary, consultative, educational, and advocacy-based — using all legal means to improve society according to our best judgment.
It might surprise you to know that many of our strongest supporters were once our opponents. By standing against us, they actually drew the spotlight toward us — and gave meaning to our mission.
A heartfelt thank-you to every supporter, benefactor, and silent contributor — to everyone who lent a helping hand.
Until the next reflection in #LTF_Essays,
Ameen wishes you all well.