Hello. My name is Emm.
I am currently a non-portfolio trustee with Discovery SVS, in the second year of my Occupational Therapy degree.
I was aware of Discovery before starting my course and upon volunteering I found it a welcoming, friendly and supportive environment that I wanted to be a part of.
Discovery has helped me make a difference to the individuals and community in the city where I grew up and given me a sense of belonging.
An aspect of my role has been to make key decisions as part of a team at the Board of Trustee meetings and contribute to policy reviews. I have provided support at a Welcome Event for prospective volunteers and during the MA Developmental & Therapeutic Play Induction where I talked about my role as a trustee. I also attended the Annual General Meeting that takes place each year which provides an opportunity to network and connect with all individuals involved with Discovery.
Working as a trustee has helped develop my organisation and time management skills. Having the opportunity to speak to large groups has improved my public speaking skills and boosted my confidence.
I feel that I have learned a lot about myself along the way and that giving my time and commitment re-energises me. It has been a positive experience that I would like to continue being a part of.
The voluntary sector was new to me initially, having worked in the NHS for 18 years before starting my full-time degree, but the trustee role has given me valuable insight into how this sector operates. This role has enabled me to transfer my existing strengths of communication, networking, and teamworking to get to know Discovery staff, volunteers and supported volunteers, who are at the heart of Discovery.
I am a passionate person who will always encourage and empower individuals to be the best that they can be. I also enjoy challenges, am determined, inclusive and have a non-judgemental attitude. My experience with Discovery has been very positive and beneficial. My trustee role has provided me with valuable experiences, new opportunities and I have enjoyed being part of the Discovery family.
It would be a privilege for me to be re-elected so that I can continue representing Discovery SVS on the Board of Trustees. I hope that you would like me to represent you too and I am excited for the journey ahead if I am to continue as a trustee