I got to interview the organisation's founder, conducted market research, found partnership opportunities and analysed their business model to propose a growth strategy.
Stephanie Lillin is a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology student at UTS. She signed up for the SOUL Award after hearing about it at Orientation.
“I was hoping to get some experience I could put on my resume, maybe participate in some cool projects.”
Her first volunteering experience was with Clean Up Australia at Sydney Park with the UTS Eco Society.
“I collected rubbish around the park with other volunteers to help with environmental conservation.”
Stephanie also volunteered for ProjectKindness, a Sydney-based charity that helps homeless people and children in boarding houses. It was part of the Business Opportunity Accelerator program led by SOUL and Practera.
She’s volunteering at Dignity, which works to end homelessness through empowerment.
“My role is with Dignity Dishes, and I help prepare homecooked meals, package them, freeze them and hand them over to an area coordinator who will deliver them to the Dignity warehouse.”
One of her most inspiring moments was meeting Clem Hartson, founder of ProjectKindness.
“It was humbling to hear about the stories of people that ProjectKindness helped and the importance of what they do for the community. Hearing from someone so passionate and dedicated was also motivating as we started the program.”
Stephanie recommends all UTS students take part in the SOUL Award.
“I have made great memories volunteering, met amazing people, took part in meaningful projects… all of which have made my student experience and my time in Sydney really memorable.”
“The SOUL Award helped me develop useful skills like teamwork, active communication and leadership. I talk about these skills and all the experiences I gained in job interviews and have put them on my resume.”
Volunteering can be life-changing. If you are a UTS student and are interested in finding out more about the UTS SOUL Award, visit our webpage.