Volunteer Voices: Wānaka residents on how volunteering impacted their migrant experience

Volunteer South is excited to celebrate Te Wiki Tūao a Motu National Volunteer Week 16th-22nd June. This year’s theme ‘Whiria Te Tangata- Weaving the People Together’ perfectly represents the role volunteering plays in the uniquely diverse Upper Clutha community, with a constantly evolving mix of short-term, long-term, Kiwis and immigrants.

Volunteering provides newcomers with opportunities to connect with others, learn new skills and find a sense of belonging. We talked to a couple of long-term Wānaka residents about what volunteering meant to them.

Consuelo Sermini Lesser – Volunteer at Kahu Youth Trust, Wānaka

VS: Why did you choose to volunteer with this organisation? What keeps you returning to volunteer?
Consuelo: I chose to volunteer at Kahu because I am passionate about working with children and it is also a place where they do incredible work supporting and empowering the skills of young people. I continue to volunteer because you always learn something new. Sharing experiences, learning more about the culture, and above all giving back to the community.

VS: What does volunteering mean to you in your culture? How has it affected your life in Aotearoa?
Consuelo: Volunteering for me means contributing to the community and at the same time creating connections, getting to know new realities and constant learning. Thanks to volunteering I can live the experience of working with children in another language and get to know more about the culture of Aotearoa.

VS: If someone new to the community was thinking about volunteering, what would you say to them?
Consuelo: Volunteering is a beautiful experience where you can enrich your personal life, and improve your skills and abilities. You can help others, make contacts with people in the community, and share experiences.

Catrin Aeron Smith – Volunteer at Food for Love

VS: Why did you choose to volunteer with this organisation?
Catrin: I've been aware of Food for Love for quite some time, and they're known for the incredible impact they have in our community. I've seen friends benefit from their support, and witnessing the positive difference they've made solidified my decision to get involved. When Christmas Day came around, it felt like the perfect opportunity to join in and contribute to their meaningful work.

VS: Describe a highlight from your volunteer experience, and why it was so meaningful to you.
Catrin: Growing up, I always associated Christmas with family back in Wales. However, since moving away at 18, I've spent many Christmases far from home, often working in bars and restaurants during the holidays, even on Christmas Day itself. So, being able to volunteer and spread some love to those who were working felt really special. Especially, as after their shift, they would be alone, away from loved ones, at their onsite accommodation. It made me reflect on how much I would have appreciated receiving a delicious Christmas dinner to enjoy after a work shift. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to me to be able to give back in that way.

VS: If someone new to the community was thinking about volunteering, what would you say to them?
Catrin: Do it! It's a great way to meet new friends.

Thank you, Consuelo and Catrin, for your contributions to the Upper Clutha community.

Whether you're looking to participate in a one-off event or project or looking for an ongoing role, there are plenty of opportunities to give back. Explore roles here or contact us hello@volunteersouth.org.nz to discuss options.