Volunteer Success Stories!

• July 21, 2025

  Posted by: Gloria Dovoh

  

  We are proud to feature some of our powerful volunteers who have demonstrated that volunteering builds job skills. Did you know that you could put your volunteer roles on your resume? Read what Akudo, Kenny and Sofiya had to say about their experiences:

  Akudo

  1. What motivated you to start volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba, and what did you take away from that experience?

  I began volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba while I was still in school. I wanted to get more involved in the community and gain experience while giving back. I was especially drawn to Volunteer Manitoba because of its strong reputation for connecting people with meaningful causes, and once I joined, I was inspired by the energy and dedication of the team. Everyone was so welcoming and passionate about the work, which made it a truly enjoyable experience. Volunteering helped me see firsthand how much of a difference community engagement can make. It also opened my eyes to the range of support and resources available for volunteers and non-profits across Manitoba.

  2. How did your volunteer role prepare you for your current paid position(s)?

  My role at Volunteer Manitoba involved speaking to people at events, promoting volunteer opportunities, and sharing resources. It strengthened my communication and public engagement skills and taught me how to connect with people from different backgrounds, skills I now apply in my paid role, especially when engaging stakeholders. It also helped me build a stronger professional network, which continues to support my personal and career growth.

  3. What advice would you give to other volunteers?

  Start where you are, and stay open to growth. Volunteering is not only a chance to help others, it's also a great way to build confidence, develop new skills, and expand your network. You never know who you'll meet or what opportunities will come your way. Be curious, ask questions, and enjoy the experience. Every conversation, every event, and every small task can have an impact, not just on others, but on your own journey too.

  Kenny

  1. What motivated you to start volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba, and what did you take away from that experience?

  My primary motivation for volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba was a deep desire to engage in meaningful work while immersing myself in a learning-rich environment. As a newcomer eager to better understand Canadian workplace culture, I saw this as an ideal opportunity to both contribute to the community and grow personally and professionally.

  Being an ambassador aligned perfectly with my passion for connecting with people and building networks. I especially enjoyed speaking with others about the wide range of volunteer opportunities. It was not only fulfilling but also energizing and fun.

  What I took away from the experience was truly transformative. I developed a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of volunteerism, both at a personal and community level. I also gained confidence in public speaking and learned how to effectively communicate the value of volunteering, helping others to see how it can enrich their personal lives and enhance their professional paths.

  2. How did your volunteer role prepare you for your current paid position(s)?

  Volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba played a pivotal role in preparing me for the professional environment I am in today. It offered me firsthand exposure to Canadian workplace culture and helped me cultivate essential skills particularly in communication, relationship-building, and adaptability.

  The experience enhanced my interpersonal abilities and helped me become more self-assured in professional settings. As a result, when I transitioned into paid employment, I was able to integrate smoothly, communicate effectively with colleagues and clients, and contribute confidently from day one.

  I am also grateful to the amazing and super supportive team that also contributed in making my volunteering experience absolutely enjoyable.

  3. What advice would you give to other volunteers?

  My advice to anyone considering volunteering is simple: start now, and choose an area that aligns with your interests or passions. Volunteering is an incredibly enriching and fulfilling experience , it allows you to develop and refine a wide array of skills, discover new strengths, and build meaningful connections.

  Whether your goal is personal growth, professional development, or community involvement, volunteering creates a win-win situation. The rewards often extend far beyond what you initially expects.

  Sofiya

  1. What motivated you to start volunteering with Volunteer Manitoba, and what did you take away from that experience?

  I initially applied to Volunteer Manitoba while I was looking for a job. They got back to me and mentioned they were currently seeking volunteers. I had just moved from Toronto to Winnipeg, and I felt that getting involved in the community would be a great way to adjust to the transition and meet new people. I agreed to volunteer and took on roles as a Referral Specialist and Community Outreach Ambassador. Through those experiences, I not only developed practical skills like public speaking and community engagement, but I also gained a deeper appreciation for the power of collaboration and local initiatives. It strengthened my commitment to community service and inspired me to stay involved in community development going forward.

  2. How did your volunteer role prepare you for your current paid position(s)?

  My volunteer roles at Volunteer Manitoba prepared me really well for my current work with kids. I had to communicate clearly with people from different backgrounds, which helped me build stronger interpersonal and communication skills. These skills are essential when working with children, as every child is different and requires a thoughtful, flexible approach. Volunteering also helped me become much more familiar with Winnipeg and its neighborhoods and navigate the city more confidently in my current role.

  3. What advice would you give to other volunteers?

  My advice to other volunteers would be to stay open-minded and take every opportunity as a chance to learn. Even if the role seems small at first, you never know how it might help you grow, personally or professionally. Volunteering helped me build confidence, connect with my community, and learn more about the city of Winnipeg. The relationships and experiences are what truly make volunteering rewarding.

  Thanks so much to our wonderful volunteers!

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