Student profile
Marija Strmota
Science & Arts student
Organisation: Wesley Mission Melbourne - Kids Under Kanvas
Why did you get involved with Kids Under Kanvas?
Wesley's Kids Under Kanvas (KUK) program provides young people with a disability the opportunity to participate in recreational and camping activities which develop new skills and confidence. This program seemed to truly benefit people with disabilities and their families while also providing me with the opportunity to help this community, share new experiences and meet many new and interesting people.
What does your volunteering with Engineers Without Borders involve?
I assisted in the organisation and planning of the outings. I also participated in the camps with the children.
How have you benefited from the experience?
I have learnt many things from my experience with KUK including how to be flexible and cope with changing plans and unwilling participants. I have learnt to communicate more effectively and efficiently and have learnt greater patience. This program has also given me a glimpse of what it is like to have a disability or to care for someone who does and I feel as though I have become a better, more accepting person since volunteering with KUK. Remembering the joy of the childrens' faces, I feel as though I have been part of something worthwhile.