The unexpected impact of volunteering:
Sana’s reflections

I began volunteering with the EY Foundation in July 2024, having heard positive feedback from colleagues who had taken part in mentoring programmes and how rewarding the programme was. It made me eager to get involved.

One thing my colleague shared with me that really inspired me was that some of the students he mentored over the years still kept in touch with him to this day. For me this showed just how impactful the programme is and how much EY volunteers have built close relationships with the students and been a trusted support during their career journeys.

I always knew I wanted to use my career experiences and skills to make a positive impact in the working world. That's why I knew right away that joining this programme would be a great fit for me. Supporting young minds to be inspired and grow in the working world is an amazing contribution and I hope my coaching and mentoring has empowered them to grow and develop their skills as they continue through their career journeys. Since then, it has been a genuinely fulfilling experience supporting young people as they take their first steps into the world of work.

2.     What does volunteering with the EY Foundation mean to you?

Working with the programme has given me greater insight into the challenges some young people face when accessing opportunities, and reinforced the importance of providing guidance, encouragement and practical support.

The most rewarding part of supporting young people is seeing their confidence grow over time.  Even small moments when someone feels comfortable enough to speak up, try something new like presenting or take part in the challenges can make a real difference. It's fulfilling to know that by listening, encouraging and being a consistent positive presence, I can help create an environment where they feel valued and supported.

What keeps me coming back to volunteer is knowing that every interaction has the potential to make a positive impact. Even a smile on their face or a milestone they achieve in their journey makes me proud to be a part of the experience. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose outside of my day-to-day job, and I also enjoy learning from the young people themselves about their goals and achievements.

I am so fortunate to work with such a great team at the EY Foundation and I am truly blessed they have trusted me to be part of the exceptional business hosting experience. I have met some amazing young people and seeing them be so inspired and ambitious, especially in the world of finance here at EY, is a truly memorable experience.

3.    What have you personally gained from volunteering?

One thing I didn't expect when I first signed up for volunteering was how much I would learn about myself. I originally signed up because I wanted to give something back, but I've gained so much confidence and happiness in return. This experience has also been valuable for my own development, strengthening my communication, coaching and listening skills.

What has stayed with me the most is the reminder that small acts of encouragement and consistency can have a meaningful impact. You don't always see the results straight away, but being someone who listens, supports, and shows up can make a real difference. The experience has reinforced the value of giving my time to help others.

4.      Can you share a moment where you saw the impact of your volunteering on a young person?

One young person I worked with was initially very quiet and a bit timid. He was reluctant to take part in the group discussions. Over the course of the business hosting, I focused on encouraging him to share his ideas by asking open questions and recognising his contributions whenever he spoke up. As he became more comfortable over the course of three days, he started engaging more confidently and asking questions related to the slides and activities.

By the end of the programme, he was actively participating in group discussions. Seeing that shift in self-belief was incredibly rewarding, and it reinforced how important encouragement and positive role models can be in helping young people recognise their potential.

5.      What would you say to colleagues thinking about getting involved — and why should they take that first step?

I did have some initial hesitations before volunteering. I wondered whether I would have enough experience to make a meaningful impact. As a Mercury Business Advisor in the Markets Finance Team, I did wonder whether the students would find my experience and what I do boring in comparison to an Engagement Manager or Partner. However, after I presented an introduction to the world of Finance here at EY and how the Markets Finance Team plays a key role in managing our internal finance processes, I found the students incredibly intrigued and asking lots of questions relating to things like the Mercury System, Engagement codes and profitability here at EY.

Once I started volunteering, I realised that it isn't about having all the answers. It's about being approachable, listening without judgement and being a consistent positive presence.

I would say that you don't need to have everything figured out before you start. It's completely normal to feel you don't have enough time outside of your role or have enough experience or confidence. Even a small amount of your time can make a meaningful difference to a young person. What matters is being willing to listen, inspire and empower young people to grow and develop.