As part of #StudentVolunteeringWeek which runs from 10-16 February 2025, the Volunteer Centre team were delighted to catch up with Cathy Lou who recently joined C3SC as a Cardiff Youth Led Grant panelist. The Cardiff Youth Led Grant is an annual grants scheme dedicated to supporting young people and youth-involving organisations to run community projects for positive social action and all funds are allocated by a panel of young people including Cathy Lou! Today, we share with you her journey into volunteering and any advice she’d like to offer to other young people.
- What inspired you to start volunteering?
I have always had a deep passion for connecting with others through conversation. Talking and chatting with people brings me so much joy, and I realized that this interest could be more than just a hobby—it could be a way to make a positive impact. I thought, why not use my love for communication to bring happiness and build connections within the community? The idea of engaging with diverse groups of people, hearing their stories, and creating a sense of belonging and joy in society through volunteering felt incredibly fulfilling. This realization inspired me to start volunteering, as it allowed me to combine my passion for communication with my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. - Can you describe a moment when you realized the difference your volunteering was making?
It was when I saw new volunteer initiatives taking shape through their proposals and planning. As a member of the Youth Led Grant Panel, I will have the privilege of being part of the entire process—from reviewing event proposals and refining plans to witnessing those ideas come to life and create meaningful impact. Starting as a new member during a time of fresh funding and innovative initiatives is incredibly exciting. I look forward to seeing these projects thrive with continued support, bringing even more positive change to people’s lives and strengthening the community. - What advice would you give to other students considering volunteering?
My advice would be to embrace the experience wholeheartedly and seize every opportunity to learn from others. Volunteering is not just about giving back—it is also about growing and understanding the world around you. Whether it is through conversations, shared experiences, or simply observing, you will gain a deeper appreciation for different perspectives and cultures. Enjoy the journey! - How do you see your role as a volunteer evolving in the future?
There is a Chinese saying that “Giving is more blessed than receiving,” and I wholeheartedly agree with that. I see myself continuing on the path of volunteering because it not only brings me joy but also allows me to bring smiles to others. I believe that even the smallest actions can lead to meaningful change, and I want to continue inspiring others to see the value in subtle yet powerful contributions. - What are your future career goals, and how might your volunteer experience help you achieve them?
I aspire to study Medicine and become a doctor in the future. Volunteering has been an invaluable part of my journey, as it has allowed me to understand the feelings and experiences of diverse individuals in society, giving me a broader perspective on culture and community. It has also enabled me to explore fields within healthcare that I am passionate about, deepening my interest and broadening my horizons.
The team would like to thank Cathy Lou for sharing her story with us and look forward to hearing more about her volunteering journey in the future! If you’d like to start your own journey into volunteering, please get in touch with the Volunteer Centre team – we’d be more than happy to help. Email volunteer@c3sc.org.uk or call 02920 485 722.
