Schools Industry Partnership, Vanessa Perkins
David is one of Inspiring the Future volunteer's. We asked Adriana a few questions about his experiences volunteering with Inspiring the Future:
How long have you been an Inspiring the future volunteer?
I signed up in late 2020, excited to join the ITF team, and frustratingly COVID delayed my debut face to face session by six months to later in early 2021.
What made you want to sign up to volunteer with Inspiring the Future?
For some time I had been searching for an organisation involved with our future generations. Appreciating how important it is to feel supported and encouraged by those around us when considering which path to take. Some have more support than others, so becoming a part of ITF allowed me to share my journey and hopefully connect with the kids. I want them to feel supported, inspired when searching for the start to their adventure.
From the moment I enquired, I was met with a wave of positivity and gratitude. From that moment, I trusted ITF had a sincere objective to make a difference for all the participating students.
What is it about volunteering with Inspiring the Future that you really enjoy?
I'm a people person, so I feel fortunate to connect & collaborate with other volunteers & the students in person. ITF gave me the perfect platform to do what I love doing—sharing my adventures in both life & business. I truly believe my experiences/challenges encountered can have a positive influence on the students.
Has your career journey taken the path you imagined it would?
No! I started working at 15, doing a variety of primary jobs. I imagined quite a lot about the future career I might embark on. But like most things, we evolve. Our environments continually influence our mindsets. As they change, so does the path!
To this day, I am always seeking ways to learn and experience moments beyond my imagination! Sitting with the students is an experience where I get to learn from them. The gift of communication and connection starts when both parties get to share their mutual respect
What is something about your career journey that has surprised you?
The roller coaster of life! Juggling life with work has been the biggest surprise. Nothing prepared me for the level of commitment required to manage both together.
I feel a considerable amount of gratitude to my network as the source for the support and encouragement I needed throughout the past 16yrs. However, my business partners and I often have those 'pinch myself' moments when looking back.
What is one piece of advice that you would share with young people today?
You don't need to decide the career straight away, where school prepares you for learning, working prepares you for opportunities and how best to identify what that vocation could be. Adding both of these together helps define who we are and how we slot into society. There is a place for each one of us. Getting some guidance is a privilege to share and receive.
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Schools Industry Partnership, Adrian Rhodes