Posted on: 14 January 2025
When Sumbal first walked through the doors of Northwick Park Hospital as an Admin Support Volunteer with CNWL, she wasn’t just looking for a role, she was chasing a purpose. “I wanted to contribute to the community and explore a career in healthcare. Supporting patients and their families while gaining hands-on experience was a fulfilling opportunity,” she shared.
But little did she know, that first step would be the start of something extraordinary.
The beginning of something big
It’s amazing, isn’t it? How one small step can completely change your direction. For Sumbal, that step into volunteering was just the beginning of a giant leap into growth, self-discovery, and ultimately - success.
Of course, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. She had the drive, yes, but figuring out what came next? That’s where things got tricky. Like many of us, she needed a little help to connect the dots. Enter the Volunteer to Career (VtC) programme, or as Sumbal calls it, her “game-changer.”
“The VtC programme provided incredible support. From refining my CV to preparing for interviews, the guidance was thorough,” she said. Suddenly, her ambitions felt less like distant dreams and more like achievable goals.
A mentor who made a difference
Behind every great journey is someone who believes in you, right? For Sumbal, that person was Ania Adams, the VtC Lead. Ania became more than just a mentor - she was Sumbal’s biggest cheerleader, coach, and guide all rolled into one.
“Ania’s mentoring, in particular, helped me feel confident and well-prepared,” Sumbal explained. One standout moment came when Ania helped her pinpoint how her volunteering had shaped her skills. Whether it was breaking down her CV step-by-step or walking her through mock interview scenarios, Ania’s encouragement built Sumbal’s confidence brick by brick.
The level of personal support surprised me. Ania’s guidance and the tailored approach to building confidence were the most valuable aspects of the programme,” Sumbal added.
That “Aha!” moment
Have you ever faced a moment of doubt, wondering if you’re ready to take the next big step? Sumbal did, too. What if she wasn’t ready? What if her experience wasn’t enough? But during one of her interview prep sessions with Ania, everything clicked.
“I realised how much my volunteering experience had equipped me with transferable skills and how well they aligned with healthcare roles. It was a moment of clarity,” she recalled. “That moment made me realise just how much I had grown through volunteering,” it gave her the confidence to embrace her strengths and take the leap into her next chapter.
Personal and professional growth
Volunteering didn’t just prepare Sumbal for a career, it transformed her as a person. “I’ve become more empathetic, organised, and confident in handling responsibilities. Professionally, I’ve gained skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving,” she shared.
From volunteer to a career in healthcare
After months of hard work and dedication, Sumbal’s efforts paid off. She secured a role as a Personal Assistant in the NHS, a position that perfectly combines her skills with her passion for healthcare.
How did she get here? Her volunteering experience served as the foundation for this success, and the VtC programme gave her the tools to build on it. “The programme gave me the tools I needed to transition into healthcare, from practical advice to emotional support. It built my confidence and made me feel prepared for this new chapter,” she reflected.
Sumbal’s advice for future volunteers
So, are you wondering if volunteering could be your first step into something bigger? Sumbal’s advice is clear:
“Volunteering is a rewarding experience that helps you grow while making a difference. The VtC programme provides excellent guidance and a clear pathway to healthcare careers, - don’t hesitate to join!”.
If you're interested in becoming a CNWL volunteer, find out more here.
