Yet, despite the extra mental workload associated to changing roles and having tons of new things to learn, o maybe because of it, I recently accepted an opportunity to do some volunteering job and it was great!
This week we are celebrating the International Women's day. Inevitably, comparisons between man and women are constant in speeches and working sessions. In the volunteering space some studies highlight that we women are ahead of man; I do not know how truthful this really is. One thing I know though: having a great time dedicating some time to help others has no sex.
I have the privilege of working for an organization that gives its employees plenty of opportunity to participate in volunteering activities. This year I decided to take one of these opportunities and collaborate with the Spanish branch of the Junior Achievement International Organization. Junior Achievement's purpose reads: "Junior Achievement inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy".
To make this happen Junior Achievement looks for professionals in different industries and specialties that voluntarily conduct training sessions for young students, often in their schools.
So for a few weeks this year I went back to school. I put myself in front of a group of 17 year old and walked them through the materials of a program called "Skills to Succeed". Some themes resonated more than others and prompted more debate: for me those were the best moments. When you feel that the class is engaged in the discussion, there's participation, even disagreement.
All my colleagues that have collaborated in this program could tell you great stories about it. If you have an opportunñity to participate I'd recommend you go for it! You'll be happy!
