Priya Varghese

I've been volunteering with Burmantofts Community Friends since December 2023, and it's been an enriching experience.

My primary responsibilities involve monitoring and coordinating group activities to ensure they run smoothly and keep participants engaged. This often includes planning and executing various events and programs that cater to the needs and interests of our older community members.

A range of responsibilities

One of the highlights of my role is providing hospitality services, such as serving tea, coffee, and snacks during our gatherings. It might seem like a small gesture, but it goes a long way in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved. I understand the importance of these comforts, particularly for our older members, and strive to ensure they feel valued and comfortable during our meetings.

Beyond serving refreshments, I actively engage in conversations with our members, fostering meaningful connections and ensuring everyone feels included. Building rapport and creating a safe space for open dialogue is crucial, especially considering the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our older community members.

Volunteering serves as a therapeutic outlet, relieving my stress and bringing me a profound sense of fulfilment.

Additionally, I've had the opportunity to contribute to digital literacy efforts within our group. Teaching essential skills like sending emails effectively and navigating various online tools can be particularly empowering for our older members.

I've helped members at a time transition to digital platforms, understanding that these skills not only enhance their confidence but also open up new opportunities for communication and learning, which are invaluable, especially in today's increasingly digital world.

Reasons to volunteer

I volunteer because it gives me a sense of giving back to society and provides me with immense happiness knowing that I'm able to help others. In the hectic schedule of my university life, volunteering serves as a therapeutic outlet, relieving my stress and bringing me a profound sense of fulfilment.

Being an international student, finding a sense of belonging can be challenging, but volunteering with the Burmantofts Community feels like joining a second family. The warmth and camaraderie I experience during our interactions provide a comforting sense of home away from home.

The experience has exceeded my expectations, enriching my life in ways I hadn't imagined.

In addition to the emotional rewards, volunteering also benefits my personal development. It allows me to sharpen my interpersonal skills, such as communication and empathy, while also providing practical experience in leadership and teamwork.

Overall, I expected to gain a sense of fulfilment and belonging from volunteering, but the experience has exceeded my expectations, enriching my life in ways I hadn't imagined.

Enhancing personal development and wellbeing

Volunteering has significantly contributed to my wellbeing. In the hustle and bustle of university life, volunteering provides a sense of balance. Engaging with members of the Burmantofts Community and contributing to their own wellbeing brings me immense joy and a deep sense of satisfaction.

The experience has been instrumental in my personal growth by providing opportunities to learn new skills. Interacting with members has helped me develop and refine my soft skills, particularly communication. Listening to the life stories of different people has broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of the world.

Volunteering has facilitated meaningful connections and allowed me to meet new people from diverse backgrounds.

Volunteering has also exposed me to new experiences that I wouldn't have encountered otherwise, and working with older individuals has been particularly inspiring. Their resilience, positivity, and zest for life serve as a constant reminder to cherish every moment and find joy in the simple things. Witnessing their energy and enthusiasm has taught me valuable lessons about embracing life and finding happiness in the present moment.

Furthermore, volunteering has facilitated meaningful connections and allowed me to meet new people from diverse backgrounds. Building relationships with members of the community has been incredibly rewarding, and the bonds formed through volunteering have enriched my life in countless ways.

Overall, the impact of volunteering on me has been multifaceted, touching upon my wellbeing, personal development, exposure to new experiences, and connections with others. It has been a transformative journey that has broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the power of community and human connection.

The power of connecting to the community

One of the most heartwarming moments during my volunteering experience occurred after the Christmas lunch when I saw the members of the Burmantofts Community playing with balloons. It was a simple yet joyful sight that filled the room with laughter and brought smiles to everyone's faces.

As I watched the members swatting balloons back and forth, I couldn't help but be reminded of the pure delight of childhood. The carefree laughter and playful banter created an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie, uniting us in a shared moment of happiness.

It filled my heart with gratitude to be a part of such a wonderful group of people.

Seeing the members immerse themselves in the simple joy of playing with balloons was a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing the small moments in life. In that moment, it didn't matter how old we were or what challenges we faced – all that mattered was the sheer joy of being together and having fun.

It was a beautiful testament to the resilience and spirit of the Burmantofts Community, and it filled my heart with gratitude to be a part of such a wonderful group of people. I was reminded once again of the power of community to uplift and inspire, and I felt truly blessed to have shared in that special moment with the members.

Support at every step

Balancing volunteering with other commitments, such as university studies, may seem daunting at first, but with careful planning and time management, it's entirely achievable.

Prioritising your tasks, setting realistic goals, and communicating your availability with your volunteering organisation can help ensure a harmonious balance between your volunteer work and other responsibilities.

In my own experience, I've found that the support of my volunteering team and the understanding of my university professors have been invaluable in helping me navigate the demands of volunteering alongside my studies.

Whether it's flexible scheduling, accommodating deadlines, or simply offering words of encouragement, the support I've received has played a crucial role in my ability to successfully balance volunteering with my other commitments.

Advice for future volunteers

To fellow students considering volunteering, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap and get involved. Volunteering is not only a good idea but also a deeply enriching experience that offers numerous benefits.

You have the opportunity to positively impact the world around you and foster positive change.

Firstly, volunteering allows you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and contribute to the well-being of your community. By lending a helping hand, you have the opportunity to positively impact the world around you and foster positive change.

Volunteering is a powerful learning experience that offers valuable lessons and insights. Through volunteering, you'll gain new skills, broaden your perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the world and the people in it. Whether it's honing your communication skills, learning about different cultures, or gaining practical experience in leadership and teamwork, the opportunities for growth and learning are endless.

In summary, volunteering is not only a rewarding way to give back to your community but also a valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth. By stepping out of your comfort zone and getting involved, you'll not only make a positive impact on the lives of others but also enrich your own life in countless ways.

So, I urge you to seize the opportunity to volunteer and discover the transformative power of service and giving back.

More information about volunteering

Read more student profiles about volunteering
Find out more about volunteering opportunities as a student at Leeds

If you’re a not-for-profit organisation in Leeds that would benefit from student volunteers, email the Volunteering Team at volunteer@leeds.ac.uk