Exploring the inner workings of city government, Hamza Mqadmi, a Temple University philosophy major, is getting a firsthand look at public service through the Mayor's Internship Program in Philadelphia. As reported by the city’s official news outlet, Mqadmi's internship provides a unique opportunity to see the City of Philadelphia at work, which boasts being the county's third-largest employer.
As part of the internship, Mqadmi has been vocal about his experiences. "I’ve always cared about helping others and being part of a community," he explained. "But working here has helped me understand what it truly means to be a public servant." Mqadmi is serving in the Office of Talent and Employee Success, under the broader umbrella of the Chief Administrative Officer’s (CAO) team, where his goal is to piece together a comprehensive view of city government functions.
His transition into the role highlighted the importance of community within the public sector. "My team gave me the warmest of welcomes and helped me settle in quickly," Mqadmi noted. This support helped him to not just observe but actively engage in the team's operations. He added, "I wasn’t just watching how things worked. I was part of it."
Mqadmi's aspirations reflect a deeper commitment to public service that has evolved during his tenure as an intern. "Now, as a public servant, I don’t just search for understanding—I help create it," he stated. And while the full scope of his internship's impact remains to unfold, Mqadmi is optimistic about his place within the community, asserting that his newfound confidence cemented his role in serving the public.
Hamza Mqadmi’s journey through the Mayor’s Internship Program is more than just a personal tale of growth; it is a testament to the learning and networking that internships can foster for young individuals embarking on careers in public service, proving to be a microcosm of the city's expansive workforce and community-oriented spirit.
