Toluwani Fadamitan’s Post

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐉𝐨𝐛 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡: 𝐌𝐲 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫 Hello, LinkedIn community! 🌟 Volunteering has been a transformative experience in my professional journey, especially in the competitive Canadian job market. As the Academic Outreach Manager at PMI for the Canada Technology Triangle (PMI-CTT) in Kitchener, I've had the privilege of connecting students from colleges and universities in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge-Guelph circle with the PMI-CTT. 𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: Volunteering is about more than just giving your time—it's about making a tangible impact. My primary objective in this role is to bridge the gap between students and professional development opportunities offered by PMI-CTT. By facilitating connections and creating opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals, I aim to empower the next generation of project management leaders. 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: The impact of my volunteering extends beyond the immediate community. By helping students access valuable resources and networks, I’ve seen firsthand how volunteering can contribute to their professional growth. This role has also allowed me to expand my own network, gain deeper insights into the industry, and develop skills that are directly transferable to my career. 𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🎯 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: Volunteering has honed my leadership, communication, and project management skills. Managing outreach initiatives has taught me how to effectively coordinate events, collaborate with diverse teams, and solve problems in real-time. 🎯𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬: Connecting with students, educators, and industry professionals has expanded my professional network. These connections have not only enriched my perspective but also opened doors to new opportunities. 🎯𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: Volunteering has deepened my connection to the local community. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact on students’ lives and know that my efforts are contributing to their future success. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠:  Volunteering is a powerful way to build your career while making a difference. Whether you’re looking to develop new skills, expand your network, or simply give back to your community, there’s a volunteer opportunity out there for you. My experience with PMI-CTT has shown me that the benefits of volunteering are limitless—and I encourage others to seek out opportunities that align with their passions and career goals. Let’s inspire each other to make a difference and grow together! 💬 #Volunteering #CareerGrowth #PMICTT #Networking #SkillDevelopment #CommunityImpact #BusinessAnalyst #MondayMotivation

The Power of Volunteering and Community Impact as an International Student. As an international student, my journey in Canada has been much more than just academic pursuits. I quickly realized the immense value of engaging in activities that go beyond the classroom, such as volunteering and making a positive impact in the community. These experiences have shaped my personal growth in profound ways, and I would like to share some of the incredible things I have been involved in. **1. Volunteering:** Volunteering has been at the core of my journey as an international student. It has allowed me to give back to the community that has welcomed me with open arms. From assisting at local shelters and food banks to participating in environmental clean-up initiatives, every volunteering opportunity has taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and service to others. Through volunteering, I have gained a deeper sense of gratitude and a greater appreciation for the power of collective action. **2. Community Impact:** Engaging in activities that have a positive impact on the community has been a driving force in my personal growth. Whether it's organizing fundraisers for charitable causes or participating in community development projects, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative effect of collective efforts. Working with like-minded individuals who share a common goal has not only strengthened my sense of belonging but has also fostered a sense of responsibility towards creating a better society. **3. Personal Development:** Building myself outside the classroom has been instrumental in my personal development. Engaging in extracurricular activities, clubs, and associations has allowed me to develop a diverse set of skills and explore different areas of interest. From leadership roles in student organizations to participating in cultural events, every experience has contributed to my growth as an individual. These opportunities have taught me the value of teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability, which are essential skills for success in any field. **4. Creating Lifelong Connections:** Lastly, engaging in activities beyond academics has allowed me to forge deep connections with individuals who share similar passions and values. These connections have not only provided me with a support system but have also opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Building a network of like-minded individuals has been invaluable in my personal and professional growth. In conclusion, as an international student, I have come to recognize the immense value of volunteering, community impact, and personal growth outside of the classroom. ssionate, resilient, and well-rounded individual. I encourage every student, regardless of their background, to explore these opportunities and embrace the transformative power of engagement and giving back to their communities. Dinesh Sharma Nagina Parmar M.Sc. M.Ed. CCRP. Ph.D. Aamir Amla

Volunteering: A Gateway to Personal Growth and Community Impact What does it mean to volunteer? At its core, volunteering is the act of willingly offering your time, skills, or resources to benefit others or support a cause, typically without expectation of financial compensation. Whether you're sharing your expertise, donating your time, or contributing financially, volunteering comes in many forms. The Multifaceted Benefits of Volunteering 1. Skill Development: Volunteering offers hands-on experience in new areas, allowing you to develop skills you might not encounter in your day job. 2. Networking Opportunities: By working alongside like-minded individuals, you expand your social and professional networks, potentially opening doors to new opportunities. 3. Personal Growth: Engaging with diverse groups and tackling new challenges fosters personal development and boosts self-confidence. 4. Career Enhancement: Volunteer experience can be a valuable addition to your resume, demonstrating initiative and community engagement to potential employers. 5. Community Impact: Your efforts, no matter how small, contribute to the betterment of your community and can inspire others to take action. My Personal Volunteering Journey As someone who loves to travel, volunteering has opened doors to incredible experiences I might not have had otherwise. Through my volunteer work, I've had the opportunity to visit places I've always dreamed of seeing, all without the burden of travel expenses. For instance, I've explored the beautiful Bonny Island, the historic Opobo town, and the vibrant Degema city - all located in Rivers State, Nigeria. These journeys have not only satisfied my wanderlust but also deepened my understanding of different communities within my own country. Beyond the travel opportunities, volunteering has introduced me to some of the most inspiring individuals I've ever met. I'm constantly amazed by the privilege of working alongside people who are truly making a difference in the world. These personal experiences have added immeasurable value to my life, far beyond any financial compensation, they've broadened my professional network, and given me memories I'll cherish forever. Overcoming the Financial Hesitation It's true that many people hesitate to volunteer due to the lack of immediate financial rewards. However, this perspective overlooks the long-term benefits that can far outweigh short-term monetary gains. The skills, connections, and experiences gained through volunteering can lead to personal and professional opportunities that may have significant financial value in the future. Moreover, the sense of purpose and fulfillment derived from making a positive impact is a reward that money simply can't buy. Conclusion While volunteering may not pad your wallet immediately, it enriches your life in countless other ways. Are you ready to explore the world of volunteering? Your community—and your future self—will thank you.

When I made the bold decision to step away from my corporate career in 2018 after over four decades, I was driven by a yearning for deeper purpose and new challenges. Balancing my teaching assignments, I plunged into the world of volunteering, not fully realizing the transformative impact it would have on my life. Little did I know that this path would become a cornerstone of my post-corporate journey, profoundly enriching both my personal and professional spheres. Initially, my foray into volunteering was driven by a desire to give back. I began with life skills coaching for students, a role that soon became a real-world classroom for me. Organizing workshops, providing mentorship, and navigating unexpected challenges sharpened my abilities in ways I had never anticipated. Volunteering turned out to be an invaluable avenue for continuous learning and growth. The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing the benefits my efforts have brought to the students. Through our interactions, they gained confidence and significantly improved their communication and interpersonal skills. Watching them transform into more self-assured individuals has been a truly gratifying experience. One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the connections I’ve made. Volunteering introduced me to a network of passionate and driven individuals, all united by a common goal of making a positive impact. Collaborating with organizations such as Navajeevan Blind Relief Centre in Tirupati, Manav Kalyan Trust in Surat, Atmadeepam Society Nagpur Centre , EnAble India, and Angel Xpress Foundation, and training students in areas like life skills, conversational English, and communication skills has forged relationships that continue to enrich my life. The sense of fulfilment that comes from volunteering is unparalleled. Knowing that my efforts can spark positive change, no matter how small, brings a profound sense of purpose and joy. It's a powerful reminder that we are all part of something bigger and that each of us has the power to contribute to a better world. Furthermore, volunteering sets an inspiring example for others. Our actions can motivate friends, family, and colleagues to discover the joy and growth that comes from giving back, creating a ripple effect that can transform communities and industries. My advice to anyone considering volunteering is this: find a way to contribute your skills. Whether it's mentoring a student, supporting a community project, or offering your expertise pro bono, your contributions matter. In the process, you’ll discover that you gain as much as you give. Let’s make a difference together. Share your experience while volunteering and how its impacted you. Dr. Sudha Srikanth #SampathSays #Volunteering #EnableIndia #Student #givingBack #purpose

Can't agree with Jack more. If you are wondering what's next in your career and thinking about a radical shift, I recommend following Jack. He is insightful, practical and very human.

When I ask people who are phasing out of their careers what they’re going to do to fill the void where work used to be, the response I often get sounds more like a guess than a statement: “I dunno. Volunteering?” It’s a noble answer, and most people say it with the best of intentions. And there’s no doubt the world needs more of it. But if you think volunteering is going to fill the void where your career used to be, you may want to rethink that.    Volunteering is doing something for the greater good, which is an important thing. And it gives you a sense of fulfillment, which is a good thing. But, for the most part, volunteering doesn’t give you a sense of being accomplished and validated – because that’s not really the point of the whole thing, is it? It’s not about you; it’s about the people and the cause you're serving, willingly and joyfully. But, let's be honest: Feeling like we're valued and accomplished is a fundamental human need. That’s what our careers give us. People (our clients or our company) pay us a significant amount of money to do things we're good at that provide major value for them. That’s why, when people try to plug “volunteering” into the port where "career" used to be, they usually find it’s a bad fit. It’s like saying you want to get in better shape so you’re going to spend more time with your kids. Both are worthy goals, but one has nothing to do with the other. And there’s another reason you shouldn’t expect volunteering to fill the space where work used to be: the “100 Hour Rule of Volunteering.” In his best-selling book “Give and Take,“ Adam Grant cited research that found an increase in longevity for those who volunteered 100 hours annually – but no benefits beyond 100 hours.* This makes sense, because volunteering gives us a sense of fulfillment that we are contributing to, and connected with, something bigger than ourselves. But if you are devoting anywhere close to the same amount of hours to a volunteer effort as you did to your full-time job, pretty soon it’s going to feel like, well … an unpaid full-time job.   The bottom line: Feeling accomplished, purposeful and fulfilled in the second half of your life requires a blended approach, one that includes a meaningful dose of volunteering and a heaping helping of work you love to do for people you love to work with. It’s not “either … or.” It’s “both … and.” * “Give and Take,” Adam Grant, Penguin Books, 2014, p. 127

Consistently volunteering for challenging tasks does something remarkable to our professional reputation. It marks us as a go-getter, a problem solver, someone who doesn’t just wait for opportunities but actively seeks them out. This reputation can open doors that no amount of networking or degrees can. Want to leave an indelible mark in your professional sphere? Start by raising your hand for the difficult tasks. Yes, the tough, complicated, often overlooked challenges that many shy away from. Begin with the small, tricky tasks that others might avoid. These are your stepping stones. Each one is an opportunity to showcase your capability, to learn, to grow. It’s in these smaller victories that you lay the groundwork for tackling larger challenges. You’re training yourself to look adversity in the eye and not blink. This resilience becomes part of your professional toolkit, an invaluable asset in any career. The truth is, our greatest growth often comes from tackling the things that scare us a bit. Each difficult task you take on is a chance to stretch your limits, to learn something new, to prove to yourself just how capable you are. Ultimately, volunteering for tough tasks sets you apart. It makes you memorable, not just as an employee, but as a leader, a thinker, and an innovator. Those who are willing to tackle the tough stuff are the ones who truly make their mark.

Why Volunteering Is a Great Place to Start By Murtala Adogi Mohammed In today’s competitive job market, securing a well-paying, three-digit or six-figure job is no small feat. It requires a combination of a strong professional network, relevant 21st-century skills, and proven experience in problem-solving. The reality is, you cannot give what you do not have. Thriving in this era demands deliberate strategies for personal and professional growth—and one of the most effective strategies is volunteering. In both the development and private sectors, employers often use specific criteria to assess job applicants: 1. Educational Qualifications: (20 Marks) 2. Professional Certifications: (15 Marks) 3. Experience in Delivering Similar Assignments (with tangible results): (55 Marks) Volunteering offers a practical pathway to gaining that critical experience, helping you to build a track record of delivering results. Here’s how volunteering can set you on a path to success. 1. Expand Your Network: Meet new people, forge meaningful relationships, and build a robust professional network. 2. Develop Knowledge and Skills: Acquire valuable experience that boosts your competence and prepares you for future challenges. 3. Find Purpose: Engage in meaningful activities that give you a sense of fulfillment and direction 4. Boost Confidence: Strengthen your self-esteem by contributing to impactful initiatives. 5. Enhance Career Prospects: Improve your chances of landing a great job through relevant, hands-on experience. Volunteering is not just an act of service—it’s a stepping stone for personal and professional growth. It allows you to gain, give, and grow all at once. Murtala Adogi Mohammed Policy Extrapreneur and Futurist

A while back, I found myself standing at a crossroads. I was eager to transition into a new field, but the one thing holding me back was the age-old paradox: "You need experience to get the job, but you need the job to get experience." Sound familiar? lol But then I discovered the power of volunteering! Volunteering isn't just about giving—it’s about growing. It’s about opening doors to opportunities you didn’t even know existed. #The Shift From ‘Stuck’ to ‘Strategic’ When you step into a volunteer role, you're not just donating your time. You’re strategically investing in your future. Think about it: 🔴You gain hands-on experience. There’s no better way to learn than by doing. Volunteering allows you to practice and refine your skills without the high-stakes pressure of a paying job. 🔴You build a portfolio. Every project or task completed becomes proof of your capability—gold for a resume or LinkedIn profile. 🔴You grow your network. Volunteering connects you with professionals in your desired field, opening doors to mentorship, recommendations, and potential job offers. 🔴You enhance your confidence. There’s nothing like seeing your contributions make an impact to boost your belief in your own abilities. 📌The Hidden Benefits Volunteering does more than fill your resume; it builds your character. In my case, it taught me adaptability, communication, and the art of collaboration—all essential skills that employers value. It also gave me clarity. Working on real-world tasks helped me understand what I loved and what wasn’t for me. It’s a no-risk way to test the waters of a new career path. 📌The Opportunities Awaiting You Volunteering often acts as a gateway. Many organizations hire from their pool of dedicated volunteers because these individuals have already proven their commitment. You’re not starting at zero—you’re starting with leverage. One volunteer role led me to meeting an industry mentor, and that relationship has gone ahead to be a pivotal one in a short while. 📌My Challenge to You If you're a beginner in a new field, don’t let inexperience hold you back. Seek out volunteer roles that align with your interests or career goals. They might not pay in cash, but they pay in experience, opportunities, and connections—and those are often priceless. So, ask yourself: What skill do you want to develop? What organization could benefit from your energy and enthusiasm? Start there.🪴 🔗Remember, every expert was once a beginner who said yes to a chance. Why not make your chance a volunteer role? I’d love to hear about your own volunteer experiences. Did it open doors for you? Drop a comment and let’s inspire each other to keep growing! #Volunteering #CareerGrowth #Networking #BeginnerTips #ProfessionalDevelopment #VirtualAssisting

How My Volunteering Experience in Abuja Went I have come a long way in my volunteering experience; I began volunteering from my first year of University and have continued to even after graduating. Venturing to another state entirely to volunteer has been quite a journey, and I am still processing all the insights I have gained. During my time here, I had the chance to meet with internally displaced persons in camps. Their stories, struggles, and resilience left a lasting impression on me. It's one thing to read about these situations, but being there, face-to-face with people who have been through so much, really puts things into perspective. I also got to chat with a bunch of secondary school students. Their energy and curiosity were infectious and it reminded me that I was once where they are right now. We talked about their dreams, the challenges they face, and their hopes for the future. These interactions did wonders for my critical thinking skills. My brain was in a constant state of problem-solving mode, and I loved every minute of it. More importantly, this experience has solidified my commitment to the path I have chosen; creating solutions to real-world problems, engaging with diverse groups of people, and developing policies that can make a tangible difference. It's one thing to have these aspirations, but seeing the direct impact of thoughtful policies and initiatives on people's lives? That's a whole other level of motivation. I can't stress enough how valuable volunteering can be. It's not just about giving back (though that's incredibly important). It's about personal growth, broadening your horizons, and gaining practical experience that you simply can't get in a classroom or office setting. To anyone especially youths like myself reading this, I would strongly encourage you to seize every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it's a volunteer position, an internship, or even just attending a community event, go for it. Each experience, no matter how small it might seem, has the potential to teach you something new or introduce you to someone who could change your perspective. Volunteering isn't always easy. It can be challenging financially when you have to foot everything by yourself like I did, emotionally taxing, and sometimes even frustrating. But in my experience, the rewards far outweigh any temporary discomfort. You wil develop new skills, make meaningful connections, and possibly even discover new passions or career paths. So, if you're on the fence about getting involved in your community or taking on a new challenge, take this as your sign to go for it. You never know where it might lead you. As for me, I am more excited than ever to continue on this path. Here's to making a difference, one step at a time! Taken on any challenge recently?