One brave step – Aysha’s Story

Back to Impact Report 2024-2025

“When looking at options for my placement year, City Year kept cropping up but it felt unattainable. I didn’t think I could do it but one of the best decisions I’ve ever made was to get over that fear and dive in headfirst.

“City Year is a programme designed to help children in schools whilst training young people to become mentors. The support around the
programme makes it feel like a community: there are other mentors in the same position as you, there are programme leaders who completed City Year themselves, who offer guidance and different perspectives, and there’s a purpose. Putting on the red jacket feels like a responsibility. There’s an excitement in being a part of something bigger, where you not only help students academically but become a supporting presence they can rely on.

“Going into school feels like your first day all over again. You have no idea how everyone will react but after a week, children were already running up to me with news about their day or asking me to play tag. It can get emotional as the connections you build are meaningful. Despite your service only being a year, the things you teach these children in that short time will stick with them. The laughs, the fun moments, the maybe not-so-fun moments; they’re all experiences that the children will learn from, as well as yourself.

“City Year volunteering isn’t just something you do, it’s something you feel, live and carry with you long after your year of service is over. It’s a demanding role but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Thank you to everyone who makes City Year happen.”