Student article: From Participant to Judge

My Journey Through the First Give programme and Beyond

In 2017, my life took a significant turn when I participated in the First Give programme. Little did I know that this decision would shape the next 7 years of my life, leading me to discover the profound impact of community service. Fast forward to today, and I find myself on the other side of the table, serving as a judge for First Give. The First Give programme is about engaging young people in social action by having them compete to win £1,000 for a local charity through research, advocacy, and presentations. This is the story of how one small step into volunteering has blossomed into a lifelong commitment to making a difference.

My experience with the First Give programme was transformative. As a participant, I was tasked with delivering a presentation for the charity SHOC (Slough Homelessness Our Concern) to a panel of esteemed judges. The aim of this charity is to provide support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness, through day centers, outreach programmes, and tailored assistance. The process involved researching the charity’s work, understanding the challenges faced by the homeless community, and articulating the impact of our support. Winning £250[1] for the cause was not just a financial achievement but a personal victory that ignited my passion for social and humanitarian action.

The programme changed my trajectory in numerous ways. It instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to giving back to the community. After the programme ended, I continued to engage in social and humanitarian activities. I volunteered at local charities, organised community events, and took on roles that allowed me to make a tangible impact. Notably, I worked with Human Appeal and participated in events that raised over £400,000 for humanitarian crises, such as the crisis in Gaza. These experiences allowed me to meet refugees and hear their stories first-hand, deepening my commitment to social change.

Working with charities has become an integral part of my life. I am driven by a desire to contribute to meaningful causes and to support those in need. This commitment to social change is not just a personal mission but a professional one as well. During my gap year, I worked as a teaching assistant at a secondary school, specialising in supporting individuals with special educational needs. This role was incredibly rewarding, as it allowed me to make a direct impact on students’ lives, helping them to overcome their challenges and achieve their potential.

Understanding the theory of change has also influenced my approach to social and humanitarian action. This framework has taught me to focus on the long-term impact of my efforts, considering not just immediate outcomes but sustainable change. It has guided my work with charities, ensuring that my contributions lead to lasting improvements in the lives of those I aim to help.

What I loved most about the First Give programme was the sense of empowerment it gave me. It showed me that even small efforts can make a significant difference. This realisation has had a profound impact on my life, motivating me to continue my journey in social impact. Serving as a judge for the programme at Eden Girls’ School in Slough has brought my experience full circle, allowing me to inspire and support the next generation of change-makers.

The First Give programme has also influenced my academic and career aspirations. It is a key reason why I will be studying Law and Anthropology at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in September 2024. This course will equip me with the knowledge and skills to further my commitment to social justice and humanitarian work.

In conclusion, the First Give programme was a catalyst for my lifelong commitment to social and humanitarian action. It set me on a path of continuous involvement in community service, volunteering, and professional roles aimed at creating positive change. This journey has not only shaped my career aspirations but also reinforced the importance of working with charities and contributing to social change. I am dedicated to continuing this work, driven by the belief that every effort, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.

By Zainab Naeem

[1] Zainab completed the First Give programme when the prize money was allocated differently to it is now, to read about how the programme works now, please see here.