Upon receiving the email recommending this volunteering opportunity, I was immediately enthused to submit my application. My interest in trustee responsibilities was sparked during my studies of Equity and Trusts at Swansea University, where I pursued further exploration of the subject during my year abroad. This academic background has provided me with in depth knowledge of the trustee role and legalities associated with charitable trusts. I am eager to apply this knowledge practically and compare my studies to actual trustee duties.
I have been particularly impressed by the impactful projects undertaken by SVS within the community, especially those supporting refugees and asylum seekers amidst global conflicts. SVS's commitment to these causes aligns closely with my personal values and motivates my desire to contribute as a trustee. I first got involved with my community whilst at school as a Shine volunteer, where I spent Saturdays doing actives such as baking, coding and crafts with children who were young carers or financially disadvantaged. From this to my most recent volunteering where I worked in the legal department of Shelter Cymru, helping homeless people find housing during the crisis, or aid with specific tenancy issues.
Working with both charities has given me many skills that would be important for a role as trustee; most importantly, being able to communicate with a range of people from different ages and backgrounds. Whilst being challenging at times, it was extremely rewarding to use the knowledge I had learnt to offer advice which helped those who have had to face discrimination daily.
Having completed the bronze HEAR award with the Children’s Legal Centre for Wales, I understand the importance that the direct volunteer work has on families and so when working towards my goal of a silver award, I would make sure that the volunteers are able to carry out their work to their best ability by directing the charity in the right direction.
Reading the responsibilities that the role requires, I believe that these are skills I have gained working at both part time jobs and further volunteering experience. Last summer, I was fortunate enough to be chosen by my university to volunteer in Sri Lanka doing turtle conservation and English teaching. To do so, I was given the task of fundraising part of the project, in which I ran a 5k, and began dog sitting. This dedication and commitment allowed me to achieve the goals I set, and would be beneficial to the role, as I have had experience on the different pathways to fundraise.
I am committed to advancing my role within charitable organisations and embracing the challenges associated with trustee responsibilities. I understand the importance of being indiscriminate; so, whilst I believe that personal experience can be a driving motivator for empathy, I place emphasis on putting my own feelings aside when it comes to the best interests of the charity.
What stood out in the trustee testimonies was the opportunity that this would have to learn more about charities, gain confidence, and