Volunteering with VTeam was one of the most rewarding parts of my university experience. It gave me the chance not only to give back to the community but also to grow personally and professionally.

During my time with VTeam, I was involved in a number of projects including Clothes Exchange, Photography, Time Travellers, and many One-offs too. I achieved the Big Essex Platinum award through my volunteering with VTeam. One of the most meaningful experiences for me was being a Regular Volunteer for the Animal Protect project. As someone who has always cared deeply about animal welfare, it was a real privilege to be part of a team that actively contributed to conservation efforts. I became a Project Leader, a role I held for two years, where I helped to create Colchester Zoo Ambassadors, assisting the local zoo with teaching the public about the importance of animal conservation. It was incredibly fulfilling to share the message of compassion for animals and to help others connect with this cause.

Being a Session Leader taught me a wide range of skills that I still use today. I developed confidence in public speaking, improved my time management and organisational skills, and learned how to support a team. I also gained experience in problem-solving, planning events, and communicating with a variety of people – all of which have been hugely beneficial in both my personal life and professional career.

Through VTeam, I also met many amazing people, some of whom are still close friends. Volunteering created a real sense of community and connection, and I’m grateful for the memories we made together.

Now working as a trainee solicitor in London, I can see how much these experiences have shaped me. The leadership, communication, and teamwork skills I developed through VTeam have helped me transition into a professional environment with confidence and resilience. Volunteering gave me the foundation to grow, both as a person and as a future professional.

I would highly recommend being part of the VTeam family!