by Roaa.
I first began volunteering in response to the crisis in Syria.
As a university student, I witnessed the arrival of large numbers of internally displaced people into my city and neighbourhood. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to help however I could, offering support to people in urgent need during a very difficult time.
When I arrived in the UK, I was motivated to volunteer not only to strengthen my CV with relevant UK experience, but also to connect with others, contribute to my new community, and feel a sense of belonging. I chose Bridges because I was genuinely drawn to the programmes they offer, which I believe have a real and lasting impact. Their work brings people together in meaningful ways, and I felt it was the right place for me to make a difference while continuing to learn and grow.
Looking back, I can definitely say that my reasons for volunteering have deepened. In the UK, I’ve come to understand volunteering in a different light.
It’s not only about offering help, but also about staying connected—to the community, to shared values, and even to my own roots.
Back home, volunteering was often about responding to urgent needs during a crisis. Here, it has become a meaningful way to maintain a sense of purpose, build relationships, and support others who may be facing challenges—not only financial, but emotional, social, or cultural. It’s about solidarity and shared humanity, and that understanding has grown stronger with time.
Volunteering has helped me build a strong support network and connect with people who share a similar background.
Meeting others who understand my experiences has made what could have been a very lonely journey much more manageable and comforting. Through these connections, I’ve learned to feel grateful and thankful for the skills and support I have, especially when I hear the challenges others have faced.
These relationships have broadened my perspective and deepened my empathy. Volunteering hasn’t just been about giving; it’s also helped me grow personally and professionally. In fact, the experience and confidence I gained through volunteering played a key role in helping me land my current job.
Volunteering with Bridges has had a deep personal impact on me, as it closely reflects my own journey.
I initially started volunteering to fill my time as an asylum seeker and to stay connected to a field of work I’ve always been passionate about—supporting vulnerable communities.
What I didn’t expect was how much I would grow through the experience.
It reminded me of the strength of community and how powerful small, consistent acts of kindness can be. I’ve come to value the simple but meaningful connections—like helping someone feel heard or watching their confidence grow over time.
Being part of Bridges gave me more than just a routine—it gave me a renewed sense of purpose, and the confidence to believe that my background, experiences, and skills still had value. It helped me feel seen, included, and empowered, even during a time of uncertainty in my own life.
Volunteering didn’t just help me give back; it helped me rebuild and reconnect with myself.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about volunteering?
I would say—just start. You don’t need to have everything figured out, and you don’t need to wait until you feel completely ready. If you care and are willing to give your time, that’s already more than enough.
Volunteering is as much about being present, listening, and learning as it is about offering help.
As someone who arrived in the UK as an asylum seeker, I know how overwhelming those early days can be. Volunteering helped me regain a sense of purpose, connect with others, and feel like I belonged. If you’re new to the country or just unsure where to begin, find a cause that truly speaks to you and give yourself the chance to grow into it. You’ll learn as you go—and you’ll be surprised by how much of a difference you can make, even with small actions.
I wish I’d known from the start how much volunteering would give back to me personally.
It’s not just about supporting others—it’s about healing, learning, and rediscovering your strengths.
What three words would describe your volunteering experience?
Empowering
Volunteering with Bridges has given me a sense of purpose and helped me feel like I’m contributing to something bigger than myself.
Connected
It’s helped me build meaningful relationships and feel part of a supportive community during a challenging time.
Impactful
I’ve seen how our work truly makes a difference in people’s lives, which inspires me to keep going.
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Roaa volunteers across multiple Bridges projects.
Resettlement Support | We support the Bristol City Council in resettling families seeking refuge in the UK. Volunteers encourage and assist families to become independent, learn more about different cultures, and make new friends. We also facilitate a series of events through the year that bring families together, getting to know their neighbourhoods and the wider area.
Peace Feast | We bring people together from different cultures and faiths together around a meal, to learn about one another’s experiences, traditions and viewpoints, build understanding, and create spaces where friendships can grow.
Walk With Me | We connect people seeking sanctuary into local communities in Bristol, while promoting regular exercise, benefiting both physical and mental wellbeing. Walk With Me provides opportunities to practice spoken English, meet someone new, and to explore the neighbourhood or new spaces.