My journey to Ireland began unexpectedly due to the uncertain situation in my home country. Arriving in Ireland in August 2023, I found myself navigating a new life, seeking asylum and hoping for a fresh start. Despite the challenges, I was determined to make the most of my circumstances.

In my very first week in Ireland, I stumbled upon the Volunteer Centre Network and learned that they help people get involved in volunteering all around Ireland. I had been volunteering informally for years, helping fellow international students at my university fill out application forms and with language skills, interpreting and tutoring-but I had never volunteered for an organisation before.

Within a few days of arriving, I met Aziz from South Dublin Volunteer Centre. He talked to a group of us about the benefits of volunteering, including learning Irish culture and language. This was the first time I had heard about the idea of formal volunteering. I wanted to give back and engage with locals, so I joined my local volunteer centre and participated in local initiatives for Tidy Towns, immersing myself in the effort to bring change to the community, no matter how small. I made friends with people from Ireland and other countries as well. The sense of fulfilment I experienced was profound, igniting a newfound passion for volunteering.

I volunteered again, this time as a steward at the Lucan Festival in September, where I not only assisted people at the festival but also connected with locals, learning about Irish culture and customs firsthand. I was learning the invaluable role volunteering played in my integration into Irish society and eagerly sought out further opportunities.

Transitioning to a different part of Dublin, I discovered that Dublin City Volunteer Center was looking for volunteers. I applied for a position working in the office as an Administration Support Volunteer for the Volunteer Engagement Team. When you apply for a volunteering role on I-VOL, we process your application and send an email with details of the next steps you will take to become a volunteer.

Under the guidance of experienced supervisors, I am honing my professional skills and learning about office culture in Ireland, which has already proved very helpful.  At a recent interview, I felt much more comfortable having already spent time in an office environment.

It’s important to me to support others to integrate into Irish society, so I’ve also joined the South Dublin County Partnership as a Community Interpreter. Volunteering in this capacity allows me to assist migrants facing language barriers, bridging communication gaps, and providing essential support in navigating Irish culture.

Reflecting on my experiences during my time in Ireland, I am grateful for the transformative power of volunteering. Not only has it enriched my understanding of community and country, but it has also facilitated my integration into Irish society. Through volunteering, I have cultivated language skills, gained confidence, and developed a profound sense of purpose. In giving back to my new home, I have found a deeper sense of belonging and fulfilment.

Volunteering has truly changed my life, broadened my perspective, and underscored the importance of reciprocal support within a community. As Ireland has welcomed me with open arms, I am committed to paying it forward, continuing to serve and uplift others in any way I can.