Getting Started
What first inspired you to start volunteering at Unitas two years ago?
I started to live in Colindale 3 years ago. At that moment, I am not familiar with the community. I tried to search if there is any volunteering role related to sport activity so that I can get to know the community and do some exercise for my health. Unitas is a place that could provide what I was looking for.
2. Can you tell us a little about your volunteering role and how it has evolved over time?
In the first 8 months of volunteering role, I was the sport activity volunteer in the Youth Session that I motivated youth to play basketball, badminton, football and table tennis in Unitas. Later, I am the volunteer in the Warm Hub session that I motivate senior people to do exercise or sports in Unitas. Sometimes, I assist the interpretation or translation tasks for the activities in the Warm Hub.
3. What was your first impression of Unitas, and how has that changed since you joined?
My first impression of Unitas was that it is a highly professional organisation with excellent facilities. I appreciated receiving safeguarding and child protection training before starting. Throughout my volunteering, staff and session leaders provided clear guidance and support, helping everyone understand their roles and create a safe, positive environment.
Over time, I realised Unitas is more than professional—it feels like a welcoming family. The staff are friendly, passionate, and dedicated to engaging both young people and older community members. I’ve been impressed by how Unitas brings people together through diverse programmes and events, creating strong connections while staff and volunteers enjoy activities together.
Experience at Unitas
4. What has been the most rewarding part of volunteering at Unitas?
The most rewarding part of volunteering at Unitas is seeing the smiles and happiness of the young people and senior members we support. Their appreciation and enjoyment make all the effort worthwhile. It also gives me a strong sense of fulfilment and reminds me that even small contributions can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
5. What keeps you motivated to continue volunteering?
Smile face from everybody in Unitas.
6. How would you describe the volunteer community at Unitas?
Volunteers at Unitas consists of people from different ages and culture backgrounds. It is good to know and make friend with them for culture exchange.
7. Is there a particular moment during your volunteering journey that stands out to you?
I was honoured to be recognised as Volunteer of the Year and nominated for the Room for Reward. I never expected to receive this recognition, as it reflects the collective contribution and dedication of the entire team. I am truly grateful to Unitas for this acknowledgement and greatly appreciate the support and encouragement.
Chinese Community Warm Hub
8. You have been an integral part of the Chinese Community Warm Hub. What has that experience meant to you?
This is a very special experience as I have an opportunity to communicate with senior Chinese who live in UK for so many years. I enjoy listening to their stories and experience. I am happy that they are motivated to play sports and enjoy their social life in Unitas.
Recognition and Achievements
9. How did it feel to be named Volunteer of the Year 2024?
I was surprised and happy. I never expect to have this valuable recognition in my life.
10. What was your reaction when you found out you had won the Room 2 Reward nomination and hotel stay?
That was amazing. I deeply appreciate Unitas nominated me as the Hidden Hero for the Room 2 Reward.
11. What do these recognitions mean to you personally?
Receiving this recognition is humbling, but to me it represents much more than an award. It reflects the shared dedication of the entire Unitas team and the people we serve. Personally, it reminds me why I got involved—to make a real difference in our community. It motivates me to keep showing up, and I share this honour with everyone whose hard work supports our mission.
12. Is there anyone at Unitas who has inspired or supported you during your volunteering journey?
Many members of the Youth and Warm Hub team have inspired me through their care and dedication. If I had to choose one, it would be Pat. Her passion and commitment stand out—she is always prepared, organised, and focused on creating a welcoming environment. Her dedication and willingness to help others truly inspire me.
Personal Growth
13. What skills or experiences have you gained through volunteering?
My communication skills have been improved a lot through volunteering.
14 Has volunteering at Unitas changed you in any way?
Yes, volunteering has had a significant impact on me. It has made me more aware of the importance of kindness, compassion, and community spirit. Meeting people from different walks of life and seeing how much a friendly conversation or small act of support can mean to someone has been truly rewarding. It has also helped me build confidence, make new friendships, and appreciate the value of giving back to the community.
15. What have you learned about yourself over the past two years?
Over the past two years, I’ve discovered a passion for bringing people together and supporting my community. Volunteering at the Youth Session and Warm Hub has shown me that I am patient, committed, and willing to help others, even in challenging situations. I’ve gained confidence working with people from diverse backgrounds and learned that listening, understanding, and compassion can make a real difference. The experience has been both rewarding and humbling, helping me grow personally and professionally.
Looking Ahead
16. What are you most excited about for the future at Unitas?
I am most excited about the opportunity for Unitas to continue growing its positive impact within the community. Unitas already provides invaluable support to so many people, and I look forward to seeing more individuals and families benefit from its programmes and services. I am also excited to see new opportunities for volunteers to get involved, share their skills, and help strengthen the sense of community that makes Unitas such a special place.
17. What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a volunteer?
My advice would be not to underestimate the value of your time and presence. Even small contributions can make a meaningful difference to someone’s day. Through volunteering, I have met wonderful people, learned new things about myself, and become more connected to my community. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I would encourage others to get involved.
18. In three words, how would you describe your volunteering experience at Unitas?
Caring, Sharing, Growing
If you could sum up your two years at Unitas in one sentence, what would you say?
Through these two years of volunteering in Unitas, I witness the power of caring, sharing and growth of the community and myself.
Real people, real stories
Over 15,800 young people have been members of Unitas since we opened in 2019. These are just some of their stories.
We’re more than a youth centre – we help young people unlock their potential.
