What started as an agricultural degree at Kafr El Sheikh University in Egypt developed into a professional career in modern horticulture, supported by international experience and hands-on learning in the MOBILISE project.   
Mahmoud Emara, an ambitious student with a strong interest in modern horticulture and sustainable crop production, is currently working as a Blueberry Production Engineer at Agriventure Egypt. In this role, his responsibilities include monitoring plant growth, managing irrigation, following up on pest and disease control, and support yield and quality improvement. “I also work closely with the production team to ensure bestagricultural practices are applied throughout the season,” he explains.

His MOBILISE internship in the Netherlands helped him bridge what he had learned in university with real large-scale farm work. Mahmoud credits MOBILISE for introducing him to a technologically advanced, well-organized workplace which made his transition into a professional role easier and more confident.

He regularly uses skills that date back to his internship such as crop monitoring, data-based decision making, and attention to detail in the production process. And additionally, also his soft skills such as collaborating with an international team, communication skills and adaptability improved and are valuable in his job. He became more conversant with modern agricultural technologies and professional supervision, noting that it taught him how to follow clear protocols and standards, which are crucial in commercial food production.

His international experience taught him to approach challenges in a more analytical and calmer way, to understand the root causes of the problems instead of settling for quick fixes. It also “made me value teamwork more, as good coordination between departments is essential for successful production”, he adds.

Mahmoud benefited from MOBILISE since it allowed him to grasp “the importance of regular crop observation and early detection symptoms”, which he now applies very closely by monitoring blueberry and reporting issues early, which helps reduce losses and improve crop performance.

In the next chapter of his career, Mahmoud would like to grow as a production specialist in high-value crops and eventually move into a senior or management role. He plans  to build on what he learned from the MOBILISE program by gaining more international experience, improving his technical skills, and keeping up with modern agricultural practices. This is ultimately why he is planning to apply for a master’s scholarship in Europe, as a way to strengthen his knowledge and skills.

Reflecting on his experience, Mahmoud encourages future participants to “be open, take initiative, and be eager to learn, as the experience can have long-term impact on your career”.

Mahmoud’s story shows how MOBILISE was truly a valuable opportunity that developed not only his professional but also personal skills.