My journey with the Young Women’s Trust actually started whilst I was on the bus. I was travelling to work, listening to music and scrolling Facebook and came across an advert for the Work It Out coaching service. Initially I scrolled past the advert. It did momentarily catch my eye and as I carried on I thought to myself, that might be worth pursuing, what have I got to lose?
Staying in the family
Whilst I was still having coaching, the opportunity to get involved more with the YWT came up. I knew I definitely was not ready to leave the YWT family yet. I had a lot more to give to the charity, and knew I hadn’t spread the word wide enough yet so I joined the Advisory Panel.
Meeting Melinda Gates
Through the YWT Advisory Panel, I attended an event to celebrate the launch of A Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates. The book is about all of the ways women still receive discrimination, for example not having access to free contraceptives, and how by giving them equality they improve the communities around them. It was a radio talk, with Melinda and several other influential women.
If I’m being honest, I didn’t know anything about Melinda before the event. But I quickly did some research and you can’t help but not be inspired by her. She’s amazingly humble. She talks about how she goes into remote communities dressed in plain clothes, and she goes without anyone knowing who she is so she can really get to understand the individuals and the communities. To have that kind of humility is inspiring. It’s made me want to do a lot more to help others. I want to be able to reach out to people without having a preconceived notion of what they will say or what will happen.
Amazed and humbled
Coming home on the train afterwards, there were no words to describe how I felt and I still struggle now. Overwhelmed is the most frequent word. It was amazing, humbling and just an honour to have been a part of it. It will be something that I tell everyone about for the rest of my life.
Every time I do something with the Young Women’s Trust, I feel more empowered as a young woman, and I feel a little bit more like I’m part of the community. It gives me a stronger sense of identity. It’s further cemented for me that working for a charity is where I want to go in life too.
If I hadn’t been a part of the Young Women’s Trust, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to have been involved in an event like this. They really are life changing. From having the career coaching, learning more about myself and who I am as a person, to helping the charity, it gives you such a sense of achievement. I would encourage everyone to get involved, even if you’re unsure, because it’s so worthwhile!
Do you want to get involved like Amie?
Sign up for free coaching today or join our Facebook group, The Lounge for women aged 18 – 30 to take part in discussions, opportunities and competitions.
