Roles undertaken within Loughborough Sport
Volunteer Zambia (Basketball Development Officer), Basketball Activator, IMS All-Stars Basketball Assistant Coach, Events Volunteer, BUCS Big Wednesday Volunteer.
Tell us a little about yourself (E.g. hobbies, interests and background)?
Growing up, I was always interested in sport and physical activity, playing basketball competitively throughout grassroots levels, playing National League for several years.
This unwavering passion led me towards my undergraduate degree at KCL in Sport and Exercise Medical Science, and now my MSc at Loughborough in Sports Rehabilitation. I have loved transitioning from a player to a coach with the help of the CVA and Loughborough University.
How did you first get involved in volunteering within sport at Loughborough?
Early on in Semester 1, I read about the Volunteer Zambia scheme, which involved a Basketball Development Officer Role. This instantly sparked my interest as a long-time basketball player who enjoys travelling and experiencing new cultures, as well as basketball roles being hard to come by in England, I jumped at the opportunity and applied and fortunately, I was accepted. From this, I became heavily involved with the CVA throughout my year at the university in preparation to come out to Zambia.
During your years at Loughborough, what have you got involved in through volunteering within sport?
This year I have been involved with Volunteer Zambia, the Rec Basketball Programme as a Basketball Activator, Assistant Coach of IMS All-Stars Basketball and an Events Volunteer with LIA and Big BUCS Wednesday.
What has your experience volunteering been like whilst at Loughborough?
Volunteering at Loughborough has truly made my year at the university special and unforgettable. I have met a variety of people who have helped my personal and professional development, and I hope I have impacted others in a similar way.
Also, the ability to get involved with sports I have previously never watched/participated in has been incredible and I greatly value this opportunity that the CVA provides.
How has being involved with Loughborough Sport helped you develop and progress (personally and professionally)?
Personally and professionally, I have developed my communication and confidence, which is something I have always been anxious about, and through my volunteering, this has been boosted greatly. Also, the diversity of the CVA is remarkable, meeting people from differing cultures and backgrounds is amazing and without my volunteering this may not have been a part of my university experience.
What’s the best advice you could give to a Loughborough student looking to get involved in volunteering & gain the most out of their university experiences?
Anyone looking to be involved with the CVA is already in the right place, getting involved may seem daunting, but it has definitely been the highlight of my year. All I can suggest is that you get involved with everything and anything!
Finally, what do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy meeting new people, volunteering at the university allows you to meet so many people, differing in race, age and gender, something truly valuable that shouldn't be taken for granted.