Volunteer story by Sanjilah

Please share a brief overview on yourself:

My name is Sanjilah! I am a second-year student at La Trobe University, I am studying a double degree in Public Health & Health Promotion.

What inspired you to become a LiverWELL volunteer?

Health promotion is my passion, so I was looking for an organisation that I could volunteer for that supported me in my career aspirations. I stumbled upon LiverWELL, which looked perfect as I noticed health promotion officers worked there!

I wanted to volunteer to advance my knowledge and skills in the health promotion space while also benefitting LiverWELL in the process.

Do you have a particular interest in liver health?

My interest in liver health started when I took an elective during the winter semester which focused on drugs. I did my essay on Needle Exchange Programs, and through that, I learned about hepatitis. Eventually, hepatitis sparked my interest, and I stumbled upon LiverWELL.

I read articles and resources on the website that discussed liver health and hepatitis. Particularly, I did not know that liver cancer was the fastest-growing cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia.

Please describe one of your favourite LiverWELL experiences or moments.

Helping Alain and Maddie out at the STRIVE health fair. It was my first time volunteering with LiverWELL and engaging with the community. I spoke to many people that day, educating them about LiverWELL and hepatitis while also playing fun games with them.

It was a very interactive role that forced me to use my social skills. And everyone I engaged with was nice and interested in playing the games and learning more.

Further, Alain and Maddie were both very welcoming, kind, and knowledgeable.

What tips do you have for new volunteers?

I would say to be flexible and open to all the volunteering roles available at LiverWELL.

LiverWELL has many volunteering opportunities, we have a fortnightly mailing list that details the volunteering opportunities available. It’s best to try out as many as you can to develop your skills!

What’s next for you?

I would like to continue to volunteer and explore my creative side.