This month, we’re proud to introduce Imrane Helmaoui, a Master’s student in Business Engineering at Solvay Brussels School and a committed volunteer who supports educational equity through tutoring and mentoring initiatives across Brussels.

 

Tell us about yourself?

My name is Imrane Helmaoui and I grew up in the municipality of Anderlecht. I also completed my entire schooling there, up to my CESS in June 2021. After that, I enrolled in a bachelor's degree in Business Engineering, and I am currently in my first year of the master’s programme in Business Engineering at Solvay.
Alongside my studies, I volunteer with three non-profit organisations that work to reduce educational inequalities. I tutor maths with the organisations Schola ULB and Bravvo, both of which support pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. I’m also a campus ambassador for Teach for Belgium at ULB, an organisation that supports teachers working in schools with a low socio-economic index.
 

What made you choose the Business Engineering programme?

During secondary school, I always took language-focused options, meaning I had fewer hours of maths and science than students in other tracks. However, I’ve always had a real interest in maths and wanted to challenge myself at university level. I was also interested in economics, so I chose the Business Engineering bachelor’s. The variety of courses was also an important factor for me. It’s actually this multidisciplinary aspect that led me to choose the programme.

Did you face any particular difficulties when you started university?

When I started university, I didn't except the level to be so high. I felt a huge gap between my abilities and those of the other students. I truly experienced academic inequalities and saw the differences in educational standards between Brussels' municipalities. On top of that, my background in languages made things even more difficult. But I chose to turn that gap into a strength, and I worked hard to overcome it because I was convinced I had what it takes to succeed.

Were there any professors or courses at Solvay that particularly marked or inspired you? 

When studying for my first maths course, I followed the online tutorial sessions recorded during the COVID year by Arthur Sanchez. His teaching style really stood out to me – the way he could explain complex concepts in such a clear and accessible way made a big impression.
 

How long have you been involved with Bravvo and Schola ULB? 

I’ve been a maths tutor with Schola ULB and Bravvo since the end of 2023 and the end of 2024 respectively. In practical terms, I give maths lessons once or twice a week to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. I joined these organisations because I believe in the cause they support, and I think helping others is a core value that should be passed on.
 

What motivates you to spend time supporting other young people? 

I’d say it’s the idea of exchange. Giving time to these young people means sharing knowledge, but also listening to them and encouraging them. They grew up in the same neighbourhoods as I did and are facing or will face the same challenges – so I think it’s great they can benefit from this support.
Teaching maths – a subject I once struggled with myself – is particularly meaningful. If I managed to overcome those mental blocks, then so can they.

What have these experiences brought you on a personal or academic level?

They keep me grounded. Not everyone has the opportunity to put in the necessary work to succeed at university. Being able to focus solely on your studies is an incredible privilege. When you have the chance to study, you have to make the most of it.
Precariousness affects so many people, and pupils shouldn’t have to worry about their family’s finances when they go to school.
Contributing to a cause I deeply care about helps keep me motivated and strengthens my desire to stay engaged.

What message would you like to share with young people from similar backgrounds?

Coming from a so-called disadvantaged background can be a strength, and everyone deserves a fair chance despite social inequalities. Access to university education for free is a privilege few young people in the world can experience. So, living in Belgium and having access to education is a real opportunity.
If you keep at it, work hard and believe in yourself, you can succeed no matter where you’re from.

In your view, can an institution like Solvay act as a social elevator?

Yes, studying at Solvay can be a real springboard. The university offers many support services, such as tutoring sessions with dedicated lecturers. However, there’s no magic solution – the university provides the framework, but it’s up to the student to put in the effort, build connections and develop professionally.
 

Does your volunteer work allow you to develop transferable skills for your future career? If so, which ones?

Managing a group, regardless of age, teaches leadership skills. Being able to handle certain delicate situations is also a valuable asset in the professional world.
Updated on April 25, 2025