Building a Future Through Giving Back: Yilin’s Volunteer Journey

When Yilin moved to Ōtaki in 2021, she quickly found herself embraced by a warm and welcoming community. That experience of being supported and included sparked a desire to give back. Now, having just graduated from Ōtaki College as this year’s Dux and preparing to head to university with multiple scholarships, Yilin reflects on her volunteering journey that began with a simple connection with Volunteer Kāpiti.

Over the past couple of years, Yilin has taken on a variety of project and event-based volunteering roles. Each experience helped her build confidence, discover her strengths, and make meaningful connections. We caught up with Yilin to ask her a few questions about her volunteering journey - here’s what she shared:

What inspired you to get involved in volunteering while you were still at college, and how did you choose the roles you took on?
Yilin: I moved to Ōtaki in 2021 and felt really welcomed in this new community, so I wanted to give back and make a positive impact. I chose roles connected to health, nature, and local organisations because they matched my values and felt meaningful.

What are some of the most important things you’ve learned through your volunteering experiences, either about yourself or about your community?
Yilin: I learned that small efforts can make a big difference. Throughout my volunteering journey, I met many people from various age groups. This made me realise that our community is made up of so many caring individuals, and we all come together to make a positive impact.

How did you balance volunteering with schoolwork, and what tips would you give other rangatahi who want to get involved?
Yilin: I balanced everything by not taking on more than I could manage and by keeping schoolwork as my top priority. My advice to other rangatahi is to start small, know your limits, and be organised so you can help out without overwhelming yourself.

What would you say to other students who are thinking about volunteering but aren’t sure where to start?
Yilin: Start with something small that interests you. Volunteer Kāpiti is a great place to begin. Don’t be afraid to take the first step because once you get started, you will realise how welcoming these organisations are and how rewarding it feels to make a difference.

Yilin’s story is a powerful reminder of how volunteering can help young people grow, gain confidence, and feel connected to their community. From building practical skills to discovering personal strengths and forming meaningful relationships, volunteering offers rangatahi a chance to make a difference and, like Yilin, to step into the future with purpose and a strong sense of belonging.

If Yilin’s journey inspires you, Volunteer Kāpiti is here to help you take your first step. Contact us to get involved!