Volunteer of the Month – December 2015
This month’s incredible Volunteer of the Month is Mary Otumahana. Mary has been spearheading a project called The RecordShop, set up as a free, temporary recording studio where young artists can record and produce their music. Through this initiative, she not only offers a creative space but also mentors these young talents, fostering connections within the artistic community. Simply put, Mary is exceptional!
Insights from the Cashpoint Co-ordinator
Here’s what the Cashpoint co-ordinator had to say about Mary:
“Mary has a real passion for helping young people access opportunities to explore their creativity. She breaks down financial barriers that might otherwise exclude them. Mary offers a valuable creative opportunity by making the project free and accessible. Her thoughtful, relevant advice to young people using the sessions is making a real difference locally.”
An Interview with Mary
How does it feel to be our Volunteer of the Month winner?
It feels amazing! I’m so pleased with what The RecordShop has achieved. I remember when my co-founder and I were just planning this idea. Achieving our goals makes me proud.
Tell us about The RecordShop
It’s a free pop-up studio in London for young people to record tracks, gain work experience, and receive mentoring in a studio environment. The project concludes with a showcase for our artists, providing them the chance to perform.
What’s your most memorable volunteering moment?
The RecShow, our end-of-project music showcase, brought together all the artists, volunteers, and the public. It made me realize how far we’ve come. The positive reception helped us gain support from various members of the public who now want to collaborate with us.
What’s been your most awkward volunteering moment, and how did you cope?
Ensuring artists and volunteers attend their sessions can be challenging. It requires quick thinking and multitasking. To cope, I avoid panicking and always have a backup plan. Volunteering has greatly improved my leadership, project management, organization, time-keeping, and entrepreneurial skills.
What would you do if you weren’t volunteering? Why choose to volunteer instead?
I’d be performing music, songwriting, filmmaking, or looking for a job similar to my role at the project. I chose to volunteer to prepare myself for this type of role in the future.
Is your volunteering part of a wider goal or aspiration?
Yes! We set up The RecordShop because it was our dream to manage our own studio. Being involved in recording music, performing, and songwriting, I easily relate to young people with similar ambitions but lacking facilities. My youth work experience helped create a community-benefiting project.
What would you like to say to the person who nominated you?
Thank you for the nomination and your support throughout the project. It has been a pleasure working with you, helping me achieve my goals.
Want to start your volunteering journey? Find a great opportunity near you.
Know a fantastic volunteer? Nominate them for the Volunteer of the Month award.