Community Work

Engaging in a remarkable experience, I have been dedicating time to weekly drop-in sessions tailored to support child refugees in County Durham. These sessions are crafted to be both enjoyable and educational, with a focus on exam preparation and the enhancement of English language skills. Currently, my involvement extends to tutorial sessions with Ukrainian children affected by the ongoing war, where I take on the responsibilities of teaching English and establishing emotional connections as deemed appropriate. In this endeavour, I have been entrusted with significant responsibilities, and the gratitude I feel for being able to make a difference, no matter how small, in the lives of these children is something I hold in high regard and will forever cherish. The students I work with have expressed their thanks for the knowledge and lessons shared, yet, as a young student myself, I find that I have learned immeasurably more from them than they have from me.

Witnessing children filled with aspirations and ambitions placed in vulnerable situations has profoundly shaped my perspective on life. It underscores how even seemingly small and insignificant gestures can make a world of difference. Raised with the belief in the importance of making a positive impact, I am committed to continuing efforts to make a difference in the lives of these children and any others I may have the opportunity to support. The experiences, self-reflection, and lessons garnered during my time with these children are invaluable and are sure to remain eternally ingrained in my consciousness. This experience has taught me that no matter what one is yearning for, a kind word, a supportive presence, or a helping hand may be the very thing that makes a significant impact. The resilience and dreams of these children serve as a constant reminder of the potential for positive change, motivating me to continue striving to contribute to the well-being and growth of those around me.

Volunteering at 'Wanna Read?' in NMC Hospital not only granted me the chance to make a positive impact but also bestowed a significant amount of responsibility upon my shoulders. Beyond the simple act of reading to children in the hospital, I found myself entrusted with the well-being of these young patients during the hours I spent with them.

The experience is etched into my memory as a profound opportunity to bring joy and knowledge to children facing health challenges. The heartfelt satisfaction derived from entertaining and engaging with ill children through the power of storytelling is something that will forever stay with me. It transcended beyond a mere volunteer commitment; it became a personal mission to provide comfort and care during their hospital stay. I witnessed a noticeable improvement in my social and relationship skills as I learned to navigate the delicate dynamics of connecting with children who needed not only stories but genuine care and attention. Being able to form meaningful connections with these young individuals, offering a sense of companionship during challenging times, proved to be an incredibly rewarding aspect of the experience.

In essence, volunteering at 'Wanna Read?' not only allowed me to contribute positively to the lives of hospitalized children but also became a catalyst for personal growth. It emphasized the profound impact that simple acts of kindness and genuine connections can have on the well-being of others. The lasting memories and the skills acquired during this volunteer work continue to resonate, reminding me of the meaningful difference one can make by extending a compassionate hand to those in need.