Sharika Benny shares her volunteering experience

Shanika is pursuing MDes Comics and Graphic Novels and has won Volunteer of the Year at the President’s Dinner 2023.

“I still remember that cool winter evening sometime in November when I first went to use DUSA’s Campus Pantry. I was delighted as much as I was curious – delighted because I could collect ten free items, curious because I was eager to find out how it would be run. As soon as my turn came to step in through the small shop door, I was greeted by DUSA staff, guided through the store, and then later found myself outside with the items I needed. But something stayed with me as I walked back to my flat that night: that shop needs some warmth and love. I did feel it there, but I wondered if I could be a part of it, too – showing love to all the students who come in need of essentials. And so, the moment I saw that DUSA was looking for volunteers for the Campus Pantry and the Breakfast Club, I didn’t hesitate to register my interest. In early January I heard back from them, and a week later, I started volunteering for the first time. Little did I know at the time where this volunteering would take me, the people I would meet, and the things I would go on to achieve – all by grace.

My volunteering journey with DUSA has been rewarding and enriching. I have learned how to be more patient and compassionate, address challenging situations, lead with humility, encourage participation and improve work among fellow volunteers. It was humbling to have been assigned the position of Lead Volunteer and to be asked to conduct training sessions for aspiring volunteers. Through these activities, I have come across some very talented individuals as I have learned how to see skills and initiatives some volunteers display while on duty. It is always a delight to encourage them and to recommend them for more demanding opportunities as per their strengths. I have also learned the importance of effective communication, proactiveness, and having a presence of mind – all of which I believe would help me as I take part in future endeavours. Although my duties as a volunteer increased since January, my heart for volunteering hasn’t wavered.

Perhaps what made this journey impactful was when I got awarded the Volunteer of the Year from DUSA on the 25th of May. On that day, I realised that the award is only a start of what DUSA’s volunteering community can achieve, a start to something that can be so beautiful and meaningful all at the same time. But I do not think I could have made it this far if it weren’t for all the support and encouragement I received from the senior management at DUSA – all of which I am extremely thankful for.”

Learn more about the volunteering opportunities at DUSA – Volunteer with us!