Journey asks Mobin Barati: Why do you volunteer?

MobinBarati at work. Photo by Anna Masci LCCQ 

AS A NEW migrant to Australia I need to strengthen my community relations and break down barriers of fear and misunderstanding.

Volunteering helps me meet new people and make new friends.

It promotes my self-growth and I can use my skills and learn new social skills or even technical skills which are related to the Australian social and work culture.

Volunteering makes me feel appreciated and needed, the main reasons for my migration. It provides an opportunity to give back what has been given to me.

I play a very small part, but I feel blessed to be able to play that part and I applaud the community and the work done there.

What’s more I have too much time on my hands. I was used to working hard and my migration has caused me to become unemployed temporarily.

Volunteering gives me a new sense of worth and motivation. In addition, volunteering allows me to keep in touch with people and everyone is always very appreciative of my efforts.

Finally, it sends a signal to my friends, family and future employer that I have strong motivation and a sense of achievement.

 Mobin Barati is an IT Service Desk volunteer for Lifeline Community Care