“Strive to be a change maker” Masters student advocates volunteering after experience with Scottish Huntington’s Disease charity 

A Masters student has become a passionate advocate of volunteering after working alongside Scotland’s only charity dedicated to Huntington’s Disease.

MSc International Human Resource Management student Felix Olowokere has been volunteering with the Scottish Huntington’s Association after seeing an advertisement for helpers on the University campus.

The charity, which is Scotland’s only charity dedicated to the disease, was founded in 1989 and was created to help improve the lives of those who live with Huntington’s Disease.

After not knowing much about the disease initially, Felix has described his volunteering experience as ‘eye-opening’ after having the opportunity to learn about the effects of the condition:

How did you discover the opportunity to volunteer with the Scottish Huntington’s Association?

“Prior to volunteering with the Scottish Huntington's Association (SHA), I had always been on the lookout for opportunities to make a difference and contribute on and off campus since I arrived in Glasgow last year. I have been volunteering for almost half my life in different capacities, so when I saw the flier for the Scottish Huntington's Association boldly displayed at the Students’ Association building, I knew I had to get involved.

The good part was, it was not just at the Students’ Association building, but the neatly designed blue fliers that were also displayed in other prominent locations on campus, bold enough to catch anyone's attention, as it did mine. In addition to wanting to contribute my time and efforts, another thing that caught my attention was the opportunity to make a difference, as I mentioned earlier. I didn't waste any more time in filling the form online, and the whole process was quite fast. The coordinator reached out to me, and we had a quick catch-up regarding the event and discussed further clarifications I had at the time.”

What did you get to do as part of the volunteering role?

“The event was basically a fundraiser and also aimed to intensify awareness for people with Huntington's disease, starting  at 10am until about 3pm. I got in quite early, and one of the first things I did after being introduced by Linda (the coordinator) to other volunteers and members of the Association, was to assist with setting up the event by arranging chairs and tables, putting up decorations and sorting papers which were used for the raffle. I also helped to put together a beautiful banner that was displayed at the entrance.

During the event, I had the opportunity to do a couple of new things - some which I had not done before, with my favourite being selling items that had been donated as part of the fundraising effort by individuals. People who came in were generous and often paid more than the asking price just to support the cause. I found that to be incredibly kind and thoughtful! There was also music and games for attendees to enjoy. And of course, I displayed a little bit of my "legwork" dancing skill, which is a popular dance style in Nigeria. I think I need to work more on my dancing though, as I tend to do it better in my head.  At the end of the event, I stayed behind to clean up the building. Overall, it was such a beautiful experience.”

We know that you enjoyed your experience. What did you take away from it?

“Learning about Huntington’s Disease was quite an emotional experience for me. Prior to volunteering, I knew very little about the disease and was just eager to participate. However, I made sure to take some time to research the disease prior to the event, and my discovery was an eye-opener.

Huntington's Disease is an incurable neurological condition that affects the brain and gets worse over time. I also got to know that there is a 50/50 chance of an offspring of someone with Huntington’s Disease inheriting it. It basically means if someone in a family has it, then there is a 50% chance that their kids will inherit it, culminating into passing it their offspring and possible many that will come after them. It made me reflect on how certain situations or predicaments are beyond our control, and also the generational impact of this on those who have got the condition. Just a single faulty gene can alter the trajectory of the individual and generations after. The important thing, though, is to find happiness in our situation no matter how tough things might be, or just go ahead to create that happiness...because, why not? Life is too short to keep dwelling on our setbacks.

I must also applaud the Scottish Huntington’s Association for their unflinching efforts and good works in raising funds and awareness, while also helping those whose lives are affected by this disease.”

How important is it for students to try and complete some volunteering experience, especially for an important cause, whilst they’re studying?

“I believe it is very important that beyond education, students engage in extracurricular activities and strive to be a change maker by getting actively involved in acts that contribute to the Common Good. It could be something as little as utilising a skill as a tool for a change in their community. You know, volunteering also provides experiences that are invaluable.

One story that is really intriguing and resonates with me is Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu’s, also known as Mother Theresa. Against all odds, she helped impoverished communities and dedicated her life to changing the world for the cause of humanity. Such is the level of servitude I always try to aim for.

Just some days ago, I received an email from Linda (SHA coordinator), asking me if I'd like to join their meeting in the New Year, as they really appreciated my effort at the last event. Such warms my heart.

I would encourage GCU students to consider volunteering in whatever capacity they can. They should also be on the lookout for volunteering opportunities around campus and on the Students’ Association webpage. It’s definitely worth it and a great way to make a difference in the real world.”

Find out more about volunteering opportunities by visiting the GCU Students’ Association dedicated webpage

By Rachael McAlonan

Got a SCEBE or GSBS story? Email me at Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me on social media  here