Celebrating Leeds volunteers

National Volunteers' Week, held 1-7June, is an opportunity to celebrate volunteers and give thanks for all they do.

This year we shone a spotlight on our global volunteer community who, despite the challenges of the last few years, continue to offer their support to the Leeds community.

Read their stories, and discover why they chose to help the next generation of Leeds graduates.

Joey Kong (MBA 2014)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

A strong sense of belonging and proud of being part of Leeds, I just purely want to give back!

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

Every little bit helps, be it a small talk to students or an online webinar helps. It’s pretty rewarding too, trust me!!

Siddha Maloo (MSc International Business 2017)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

The University of Leeds is my Alma Mater and a premier institution of learning and overall personality development. Studying at the Leeds University Business School had been the turning point in my life. The international exposure that I have got here has shaped my future. I am indebted to the University of Leeds for making me the person I am today and that is why I am always willing to offer my services to this prestigious and historic Institution. For the last 5 years I have been volunteering actively to motivate international students to pursue education at the University of Leeds. I have been addressing the prospective students in pre-departure briefing sessions every year as an Alumni Ambassador. I have been officially appointed as a 'International Students Mentor' by the University to guide the students throughout their studies in Leeds. After graduating from the University, I even visited Leeds to personally counsel my mentees. I take pride in volunteering in the events organised by the University of Leeds as this is the only way by which I can stay connected and contribute to the growth of the University. I have been in constant touch with the Leeds International Office and with all my professors.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

The University is renowned for its active worldwide network of alumni who are at the zenith of their career. It is the alumni who carry out the legacy and pass it on to the next generations. It has always been a wonderful experience for me to participate in all the events organised by the University of Leeds and share with the young students what I have learnt. Because the alumni have gained so much in common from the University of Leeds, it is the demand of the time for all the alumnus to maintain institutional fraternity and join in to connect, learn, contribute and work together for the cause of our institution, by encouraging more and more students to pursue their career from the University of Leeds. Volunteering in the University events would not only benefit the prospective students and the current cohort, but it would also lead to a sense of satisfaction and pride for alumni.

Luella Fernandes (Food Science 2012)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

My year at Leeds has helped shape who I am today. I thought it only apt to give back to my alma mater in any way possible.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

It is as enriching an experience for the alumni volunteer as for the graduate student.

Ifechi Nwachukwu (International Business 2012)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

My experience in Leeds was a life changing one. The network, people, exposure and of course the learning plan opened up different career opportunities and advancement possibilities which has supported my industry expertise and credibility. Studying international business had me working collaboratively with people from different cultures and disciplines. Volunteering at Leeds was just sharing the wonderful experience I had at Leeds.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

Go ahead with it. I was among the pioneer alumni that organised the first alumni get together in Abuja. With little or not much data base we were able to connect to other alumni all over Nigeria and yes we had a great time.

Joseph Cookey (Exploration Geophysics 2014)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

As a former student there, I have a personal duty to help guide students to succeed like I did while studying there and to prepare them for life after school.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

They should take up the opportunity without hesitation as it will help bring positive change to their lives and the lives of those they will help.

Anamika Chowdhury (International Journalism 2015)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

I wanted to share my experience (both the joys and struggles) of studying, working and living in Leeds with students and their parents who naturally from their fear of the unknown are apprehensive about taking this 'big' step. Also I wanted to give them the confidence that I lacked, and guidance that I didn't know or have the courage to ask for whilst a student in Leeds.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

This is an extremely fulfilling experience and helps you to stay connected and involved with your alma mater even when you are thousands of miles away.

Sharique Ahmed Khan (LL.M 2012)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

My year in Leeds made me independent, disciplined and sensitive to people around me. It gave meaning to my life and inspired me to volunteer for my Alma Mater by mentoring present students and shaping their future. I am indebted to my university for all the things I have learnt from the faculty and the excellent mentorship I had received while pursuing my course in the UK.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

I encourage all alumni to come forward and contribute in shaping the future of present students through their experiences.

Mahlet Assegahegne (Electronics and Communications Engineering 2017)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

I was looking to encourage young secondary students to consider University and to increase my own confidence.

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

Go for it

Kalyan Chattopadhyay (MA TESOL and ICT 2010)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

Leeds has a vibrant academic and research culture

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

You can choose Leeds unhesitatingly

Pablo Merino (MSc Engineering Geology 2014)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

To invite people to think beyond London as a postgrad opportunity, Leeds was an amazing place to study and live

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

It is an interesting process, it reminded me of choosing postgrad options and how useful an Alumni can be at that point.

Jerry Ma (MA Cinema and Photography 2014)

Why did you decide to volunteer?

As a graduate of Leeds, I always feel proud to be part of our community, and it’s my honour to give back and volunteer

What would you say to other alumni who are considering volunteering at Leeds?

Think of our University, think of our life in Leeds and remember what we learned from the city and its people, don’t hesitate to be a volunteer when there’s a chance