How Volunteering Changed My Life

As a mother of two and a longtime retail worker, Chihera’s life was once busy and predictable. But everything changed when physical ailments made her job untenable and she was forced to leave. “That was painful. What followed was a period of uncertainty and a struggle with the idea that my life without work was worthless. But what I didn’t know was that an unexpected turn of events would help me rediscover my strength and passion.”

For years, I’d given my all for my job: I worked hard, provided for my family, and gave everything I had. But my employer wasn’t willing to consider my options when my body couldn’t handle it anymore. After surgery during the coronavirus pandemic, I was forced to resign from my position, without a single sign of compassion. When I realized I was out of work and sitting at home empty-handed, my world collapsed. Everything I thought I knew and what gave me security was gone. I’d lost my identity as an independent working mother. I felt empty, angry, sad, and disappointed. Over the years, I hadn’t done any further training or professional development because, as a working mother, I had to care for my chronically ill child. None of the jobs offered suited me. I was tired and, above all, just wanted to be left alone.

Promise to my grandma

Until one sunny day in 2022, I walked past the Krake E Sewa daycare center in Zuidoost and felt inspired to go inside. It felt like an open door drawing me in. I heard cheerfulness, laughter, and the aroma of Surinamese cuisine. Once inside, I felt a feeling I’d lost for years. I saw a living room full of grandparents, which immediately filled me with nostalgia. I remembered my grandmother, who lovingly raised me for a few years during my childhood. Sadly, she’s no longer with us, but I remembered my promise to her as a little girl: “Grandma, when I grow up, I’ll take care of you.” That promise suddenly resurfaced, and I thought, if I can no longer take care of my grandmother, maybe I can take care of other grandparents. So I immediately signed up as a volunteer. I wanted to hold on to that feeling, and I was able to work with the seniors every Friday.

Hunta Makandra

Every Friday afternoon became a healing experience for me. We talked, played games, and ate together. It gave me the satisfaction and appreciation I needed. The will to choose someone else and to help without receiving any money gave me new energy, color, and a new direction in my life. My time at Kraka E Sewa shaped me, broadened my horizons, and helped me regain my strength. I then enrolled in a full-time legal program because I wanted to stand up against injustice. Meanwhile, I met Alida Landbrug, the chair of the Huntu Makandra Foundation, an organization that supports seniors in Amsterdam Zuidoost with a Surinamese and Caribbean background. I now volunteer there myself, where I supervise activities. Alida saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. She inspired me to persevere and gave me the strength to flourish. Alida is now my mentor, and we work together to combat loneliness among seniors.

My dream – creative with seniors

I also received support from Ms. Ursila Makosie, with whom I had intensive discussions at the community center. Ms. Ursila is now the figurehead of my own community initiative in the neighborhood. I call my initiative ‘Coms,’ which stands for Creative Entrepreneurship with Seniors. It’s my way of connecting people. Every Friday afternoon, I get creative with seniors at the Kikkenstein neighborhood salon. We offer a safe, welcoming space where seniors can enjoy a cup of coffee, participate in activities, and feel valued. My dream is to start an official foundation in the future, where I can further utilize my creativity for the well-being of seniors. Thanks to Alida’s support and the wonderful people at Huntu Makandra, I know I’m on the right track.

Therapy with guaranteed success

Volunteering was once unfamiliar to me, but it changed my life in ways I could never have predicted. It gave me a new purpose, a stronger sense of self-worth, and broadened and deepened my horizons. It was the best choice I ever made, a source of strength and energy that I still draw on every day. The best part is that I’m truly making a difference in the lives of others. Doing something compassionate for someone else and receiving that appreciation in return is an indescribable feeling. The reward isn’t always material, but the satisfaction is unparalleled. Volunteering isn’t just for others, but also for yourself. My motto is: it’s therapy with guaranteed success.

Also interested in volunteer work?

Choose something that suits you.   You’ll find 1001 possibilities  in our online job board for the Amsterdam Volunteer Center. Or feel free to stop by one of our consultation hours .

Photos: Kitty de Jong