This International Volunteer Day, we celebrate the power of giving time and support to others, particularly through diverse experiences that bring people together and strengthen communities. United by the belief that diverse volunteering contributes to building more inclusive, supportive environments—something we can all agree the world needs more of—we share an inspiring story of a volunteer who brings unique perspectives and experiences to her efforts.
In this special interview, we speak with Nassima, who shares how volunteering has helped her build connections, give back to her community, and support others facing similar challenges. Her journey beautifully demonstrates how diverse volunteering fosters belonging, empathy, and resilience.
Nassima’s Story
Can you tell us about your journey to England and what inspired you to start volunteering? How did you overcome any initial challenges?
I am originally from Afghanistan and moved to the UK with my husband to build a better future for our children. While living in Scotland, I received incredible support from a volunteer named Shirley at Home-Start. Shirley helped our entire family in many ways—improving my language skills, guiding me through everyday tasks like navigating supermarkets, and assisting with essential activities such as registering with a GP. Her kindness and impact inspired me to start volunteering myself, as I saw firsthand how vital volunteers can be for those they support.
When we moved to England, I began volunteering at my children’s schools, assisting on school trips and bridging the teacher-parent relationship through translation and interpretation. I also volunteered in charity shops, and for the past three years, I have been volunteering with Mutual Aid KC, helping at their clothes bank for refugees and asylum seekers. Through this work, I’ve been able to give back in the same way Shirley once helped me.
What role has volunteering played in helping you build a sense of belonging in your new community?
While volunteering at my children’s school, I translated for a parent who needed support, and the headteacher made me feel incredibly welcome. This experience gave me a sense of belonging and community, while also empowering me to feel more confident in my English skills. As my language improved, so did my ability to connect with others and contribute meaningfully. Volunteering in charity shops also played a key role in helping me become familiar with my local area. Over time, I built relationships with others in the community and began to feel like “a real local”. These experiences helped me establish roots and a deeper connection to the people and places around me.
How has volunteering with people from different backgrounds shaped (or enriched?) your perspective on the community?
When Afghan refugees arrived in 2021 and Ukrainian refugees in 2022, I witnessed the true meaning of community through my work at Mutual Aid KC. People from diverse cultures, religions, and backgrounds came together to welcome the new arrivals and offer them support. This experience underscored the importance of volunteers to those they help, and I was honoured to be part of such an effort. Supporting others in need reminded me of the power of empathy, collaboration, and unity in diversity. Volunteering alongside such a dedicated and inclusive group not only deepened my understanding of community but also reinforced my belief in the transformative impact of collective action.
What unique strengths or perspectives do you think volunteers from diverse backgrounds bring to the people they support?
As someone who was also a refugee, I understand how valuable lived experience is when supporting others. Having faced similar challenges, I know how even simple things—like visiting a local park—can feel impossible when you don’t have a mobile phone, money for transport, or a mobile contract. This shared experience allows volunteers like me to empathise deeply and offer practical, culturally sensitive support that truly meets people’s needs.
By drawing on my own journey, I can help others feel understood and supported in ways that go beyond words. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds foster trust, build connections, and create safe spaces where people feel welcome and valued. This lived experience is a strength that helps bridge the gap between challenges and opportunities for those we support.
What advice would you give to others—especially refugees or newcomers—about how volunteering can help build connections and confidence?
Volunteering is a wonderful way to improve your language skills through real-life conversations while also building friendships and a sense of belonging. It is an opportunity to connect with people in your community, learn about the local area, and feel more empowered in your new environment. By volunteering, you not only gain confidence but also discover how much you have to offer, which can be incredibly rewarding for both you and those you support.
Get Volunteering
If Nassima’s story has inspired you, and you feel motivated to make a difference in your community, we invite you to volunteer with us in Kensington and Chelsea!
Whether you’re looking to support others facing similar challenges or contribute to building a more inclusive, supportive environment, there are countless opportunities to get involved. Diverse volunteering plays a key role in creating stronger communities, and we’d love for you to join us in this important work.
Click here to find volunteering opportunities in Kensington and Chelsea!
International Volunteers Day
Today, we celebrate the incredible contributions of volunteers worldwide. To learn more about the history of International Volunteer Day and how people around the world are coming together to make a difference, click here to explore more about the day and its celebrations.
