Just like superheroes our volunteers have fantastic origin stories, ones that inspire young people and shape their career journeys. While superheroes serve as symbols of hope and inspiration, our incredible volunteers play a similar role in schools across the UK.

Now, our volunteers may not don capes, wear their pants outside their trousers, or possess the power to fly (surely that’s not far away), but in all the important ways that truly make a superhero, they tick all the boxes.

First, they exhibit the courage to stand up and be heard in rooms full of teenagers.

Second, they possess a strong sense of social justice. They strive to create a level playing field for all young people, ensuring that everyone has their chance to flourish in the world of work.

Third, selflessness is a superpower our volunteers possess. They make time from their busy work commitments to share their inspiring stories directly with young people in school and industry settings. And we think their acts of kindness and generosity are nothing short of heroic.

Speaking of heroism, our volunteers are equipped with remarkable problem-solving skills. They use their experiences of creativity and resourcefulness to share innovative stories of solutions to the challenges faced by young people, guiding them towards brighter career futures.

Finally, our volunteers demonstrate leadership qualities that inspire and guide others. They are the wise mentors guiding young minds towards achieving their full potential in the world of work. Their guidance and support leaving a lasting impact on the students they meet (and students tell us so!).

These qualities not only contribute to the larger-than-life appeal of superheroes in books and films, but also make our volunteers appreciated across the UK. They are the unsung heroes, making a tangible difference in the lives of young people – and today, on the first day of Volunteer Week, we want to sing out loudly about how wonderful they are.

So, while our volunteers may not have ‘real‘ superpowers or wear flashy costumes, we think they embody the spirit of superheroes, bringing inspiration, hope and lasting positive change to the young people they meet.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering, you can visit our dedicated page here or email our Head of Programme Claire McMaster.