On Tuesday, 7 May, the University celebrated exceptional volunteering by individuals and student groups at this year’s Volunteer of the Year Awards.

From empowering communities in Myanmar to advocating for democratic participation closer to home, as well as driving forward sustainability projects on campus – the winners and nominees of the 2024 awards displayed outstanding commitment, leadership, and innovation in their volunteering activities. They showed what makes Manchester students so special.

Student (supporting the community) winner: Yamin Thet

Yamin Thet, a BSc (Hons) Management (Marketing) student from Alliance Manchester Business School, stands as a beacon of hope amidst the socio-political challenges in Myanmar. As the co-founder of Start Smart, an NGO dedicated to sustaining learning and hope among youth, Yamin’s efforts have impacted over 7,000 students currently unable to access higher education through 24 free programmes. Her dedication extends to organising events like “New Year New Me,” focusing on personal development and mental well-being, reaching over 3,000 participants.

Yamin’s influence transcends borders as she mentors students aspiring to study abroad, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams. Her relentless commitment to education inclusion and community development has made her a role model for young people in Myanmar and beyond. Yamin’s impact, both tangible and inspirational, truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism.

Watch her winner’s video here.

Group winner: The Chilean Society

The Chilean Society at The University of Manchester exemplifies the power of collective action and advocacy. Recently, the society addressed a critical need by facilitating voting access for Chileans living in Northern England and Scotland. Through a concerted campaign, they successfully advocated for and then helped to deliver the opening of a new polling station in Manchester, offering a local alternative to travelling to London to vote, therefore strengthening democratic participation in the Chilean referendum on the constitution for hundreds of individuals.

The society’s dedication to fostering connections, promoting civic engagement, and nurturing relationships with key stakeholders demonstrates their commitment to serving both their members and the broader Chilean community in Manchester. Their efforts have not only provided practical solutions but also encourage the upholding of democratic values and principles, making them truly deserving of recognition.

Watch their winner’s video here.

Student (supporting other students) winner: Jennifer Foster

Jennifer Foster, an MSci Zoology student from the School of Biological Sciences, has been instrumental in driving sustainability initiatives and supporting student engagement through the Want Not Waste (WnW) project. From securing funding for a sustainability hub to organising events like clothing sample sales, Jenny’s leadership and innovative ideas have significantly contributed to promoting sustainable living and enhancing the student experience.

Under her guidance, WnW has evolved into a multifunctional sustainability hub, offering resources and opportunities for students to engage in different ways. For example, her new ‘Library of Things’ initiative gives students access to the tools and skills to mend and upcycle belongings rather than bin and replace them.  Jenny’s dedication to creating meaningful volunteering opportunities and fostering a culture of sharing and resourcefulness reflects her commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive community.

Watch her winner’s video here.

The winners, and all nominees of the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Awards, embody the University’s ethos of social responsibility and community engagement. The students’ dedication, passion, and impact serve as inspiring examples for us all, reminding us of the power of collective action to create positive change in the world.