As part of Volunteer Week 2023, we are sharing Rashida's story about her time volunteering on HMS Unicorn as an Activities and Events volunteer: 

I’m Rashida and I’ve been volunteering on board HMS Unicorn since the beginning of 2023 as an Activities and Events volunteer. That means that I am responsible for assisting Caroline, the Volunteering, Engagement and Learning Officer, with the activities on the ship for children and adults.

I was referred to HMS Unicorn through DEAP as I had no recent work experience and needed to gain this in order to get a job.

I helped at lots of events and found them all enjoyable, getting to speak to all sorts of different people. This experience was very helpful to me, giving me more confidence so I was more comfortable with other people. I learned a lot from Caroline especially in terms of how to approach other people and felt very supported when I started so I was able to pick up the skills I needed quickly. This has given me the tools I need for the future and I am moving on to a new role at Discovery.

The thing I am most proud of while volunteering here is volunteering for every single one of the events that HMS Unicorn put on over the Easter holidays including the relaxed activity for children with autism and their families, the create a cannon activity, Brew and Blether and National Unicorn Day.

I would encourage others to volunteer at HMS Unicorn as it is a great experience!