Our Volunteers

Ayishat Abdulkadir

1. What motivated you to start volunteering with Millfields Inspired?

I wanted to give back to my community in a meaningful way and be part of something bigger than myself. Volunteering with Millfields Inspired allows me to support children, families, and the wider organization through a variety of roles from helping in the office, organising, and tidying spaces, to directly assisting with activities. Every task, big or small, contributes to making the environment welcoming and supportive, and being able to help in multiple ways is truly rewarding.

• What has been your most favourite  moment?

It’s hard to pick just one, because every moment of contribution feels special. I love seeing children and teenagers gain confidence and enjoy activities, but I also find joy in supporting the organization behind the scenes, whether it’s organising materials, setting up spaces, or helping things run smoothly. Knowing that my efforts, no matter the role, make a difference is incredibly satisfying.

• How do you feel your volunteering makes a difference to the children/families and schools we support?

Volunteering allows me to provide support in many ways, not just for the children, but for the families, staff, and the organised environment, and the organisation as a whole. By helping with practical tasks, creating and organised environment, and offering encouragement where it’s needed, I hope to make it easier for the school and families to thrive and feel supported. Every contribution, no matter the role, helps strengthen the whole community.

• What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with us?

I would encourage them to give it a try. Volunteering is rewarding in so many ways, and there are opportunities to contribute in ways that suit your strengths and interests, whether it’s working directly with children, helping with office tasks, or supporting events. Every act of volunteering makes a difference, and you’ll gain the satisfaction of being part of a team that truly cares about the community.

Alisha Rodwell

1. What motivated you to start volunteering with Millfields Inspired?

I was motivated to start volunteering with Millfields Inspired because I wanted to give something back to the local community and support children and families who could really benefit from extra encouragement and opportunities. The organisation’s focus on inclusion, creativity, and building confidence really resonated with me, and I liked the idea of being part of something that makes a real, positive difference.

• What has been your most favourite moment?

I loved taking one of our newly qualified apprentices into a school to enlighten the students about his journey from school and into an apprenticeship with the KierBAM team. I learned just as much as the students did that day about formwork carpentry. Unless these opportunities are shared and explained, many young people simply don’t know they exist. That’s why I believe sessions like this are truly valuable in helping to shape students’ futures and enhance their aspirations.

I also really enjoyed my day volunteering at the Prom Cellar. Seeing the faces of the students securing their prom dresses was a truly magical. It felt really special to be able to play a part in helping them choose their dresses and was touched to see the wonderful donations also made on the day.

• How do you feel your volunteering makes a difference to the children/families and schools we support?

It’s clear that in the areas where Millfields Inspired operates, there is a genuine need for positive role models and meaningful career inspiration. Widening Horizons couldn’t be more appropriately named, as that is exactly what it achieves and what is so greatly needed.

By offering  opportunities, inspiration, and practical guidance, the programme helps children and young people see possibilities they may not have otherwise considered. This support is invaluable in helping them build confidence, raise aspirations, and begin to imagine a wider range of futures for themselves, which ultimately benefits families and schools alike.

• What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with us?

Get involved! There are so many volunteering opportunities available to suit a wide range of skills and interests, so don’t be put off if you don’t feel confident presenting to children. Volunteering can look very different you might find yourself helping to sell prom dresses and suits at the Prom Cellar, making teas and coffees at an intergenerational event, or even dressing up as a bear at the Teddy Bears Picnic.

Volunteering will quickly become the highlight of your week. It’s a great opportunity to step away from your desk, try something new, and take part in genuinely feel‑good activities that make a real difference. You won’t be disappointed.