Lydia started volunteering with Weave when looking for a way to give back to her community.
Read her story about using her creative skills when tutoring.
I was lucky enough to grow up in beautiful New Zealand with my parents and three sisters. I studied Commerce and Theatre at Otago University (a unique mix!) which lead to a career in FMCG sales for big organisations like Nestle and Bacardi.
I love music, reading and travelling — the latter of which has sparked me to move throughout my life and learn lots about different cultures. My latest adventure has taken me to Amsterdam where I now live.
When I moved to Sydney, volunteering was always on my mind. But, like many people, life got in the way so it wasn’t until a few years later that I put my foot down and sought out Weave when I set my new years resolutions.
For me, it was the right commitment to make — giving back to a community that had welcomed me. And I could make it work with my busy schedule.
Being a keen learner myself, the tutoring program felt like a perfect fit.
I thoroughly enjoyed volunteering for Weave for 8 months before moving overseas. I was paired with a kind, smart and creative 9 year old who never ceased to surprise and delight me each week while we worked through her homework and talked about what was happening in her life.
I suddenly had another little sister! I am unsure who looked forward to our Tuesday catch ups more!
Being a part of what Weave are doing for families and communities that need it the most instils a deep sense of pride in me.
Feeling connected to an organisation and program that brightens the day of others also brightened mine.
There is a passionate and dedicated team behind the programs — a big shout out to Denise who became a good friend to me and whose kindness radiated the library.
Weave are actively connecting people from different backgrounds, cultures and walks of life; encouraging not only support but understanding. This understanding goes a long way in bringing humanity closer and making everyone feel included in Australia.
When I delivered the news that I was leaving Sydney, everyone was so supportive – a true sign of good people. That day, my student and I found a book on capital cities and she learnt about my new home with me.
Such a great example of how every change, challenge, disruption can be turned into a learning opportunity if you can embrace it with the right mindset.