I decided to sit down with (or, rather, phone) the individual members to get an insight into their thinking, their visions, and their expectations of the year ahead. It was a truly eye-opening experience, and I’m thrilled to present the outcomes of the discussion with Bella, the Partnerships rep.
What do you like most about partnerships?
-I love helping people – I think a lot of people would say that about partnerships, especially coming from the privileged position we’re in, both through monetary and volunteering value. I like that partnerships allow us to dedicate real time and effort to supporting others.
What would you like to focus on developing?
-I think I would want to make it accessible to more years, as, currently, the weekly program is only available to Year 11 and upwards. For example, with Years 7 and 8, even though you might not have the “knowledge” to tutor people, you can still get involved with activities. Another thing is -more PSHE sessions about the wider community around us that are less fortunate – because I know that we live in this sort of echo chamber, and not many people are educated on ways to dedicate your time outside of school, to things like volunteering at food banks or guilds. I’d want to suggest ways to get involved, as I think a lot of us have the willingness and time, but don’t know how to use that time to help. Also, working with Charities to add the Partnerships aspect to the events, now that they’re two separate roles, and starting more community programs like SHINE.
For weekly partnerships, you visited the Elderly Community Club, as well as participating in SHINE. What was your favourite part?
-There are so many different things – in the Club, I was really surprised at how my view of older people changed. You know how ‘the youth’ have pretty set views on young children and the elderly? I feel like that completely changed. They’re so fun, and all the people were really nice. And with SHINE – I loved it. I mentored a shy kid, and I liked supporting her. I would definitely encourage people to join it – on Saturdays I woke up and felt like I was adding something productive to my day, and, as much as I love lie-ins, I was doing something that I enjoy, and something that helps someone. It pushes you out of your comfort zone – like, doing fitness circuits with a seven-year-old is really not something that I imagined myself doing. Near the end of the program, Mellissa and I made a book of poems, and decorated it for her to take home. I really miss her, can she come back?
