Volunteer Vault #35

In this Volunteer Vault we hear more from Livia (below right), who tells us more about her match with buddy Akanksha (below left).

- How long have you been volunteering with Gig Buddies?

I’ve been with Gig Buddies for just over three years now.

- Is Gig Buddies your first volunteering role?

Yes! After completing my degree in Human Sciences and Community Services, I wanted to broaden my experience by connecting with new communities and meeting new people. This led me to Gig Buddies!

- Why do you volunteer with Gig Buddies?

I found Gig Buddies through the Seek Volunteer website. When I read the blurb I immediately discovered that the organisation aligned with my values.

This initially drew me in but now alongside this I’ve stayed with Gig Buddies because I’ve formed a genuine connection with my buddy Akanksha.

- How would you describe your volunteering experience with Gig Buddies?

Gig Buddies is so much fun! Akanksha and I go on a new adventure every month and we always have the best time. I’ve formed a genuine connection and friendship with Akanksha, and I truly value the time we spend together.

The wider Gig Buddies community is full of fun, generous and accepting people. I’ve enjoyed myself at every single Gig Buddies function I’ve ever been to and I’m already looking forward to the next event.

- Tell us about some of the highlights from your time volunteering with Gig Buddies?

I think a shared highlight for both Akanksha and I would be the two separate times we saw The Wiggles. It was so special to see Akanksha so happy, and we both had so much fun singing and dancing together.

Another highlight was when we went to see the Sydney Kings play. Basketball is Akanksha’s favourite sport and I love any opportunity to experience something new, so we both had a great time.

- What would you say to someone reading this who is thinking about volunteering with Gig Buddies?

Gig Buddies is an amazing opportunity. The time I spend with Akanksha is something I look forward to every month, and I have no doubt that it’ll be the same for you.

You might even find that you’ll end up loving The Wiggles…!

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"The wider Gig Buddies community is full of fun, generous and accepting people"

We want to take this moment to heap praise on Livia and Akanksha.

They’re a perfect example of who we are and what we do: effectively two strangers who have come together and created a genuine connection.

And we're always on the lookout for more people like Liv. If you would like to volunteer with us, look no further: to sign up with our Sydney project click here, and jump on this link to get involved on the Central Coast.