Emerging Leaders Placement Project Power 5 Interview

Muskaan Khan, Emerging Leaders Placement Project

What motivated you to become a volunteer in the Emerging Leaders Placement Project?

I volunteered for the Emerging Leaders Placement Project because I wanted to get more involved with volunteering all throughout Canada. I love how it has opened up many placement opportunities for me at a time when I was scrambling to gain more experience and expand my extracurricular impact.

What do you consider to be the most rewarding aspect of being a volunteer?

I also really enjoy volunteer work because I believe it teaches us so many lifelong skills, like responsibility, caring about community, and communication skills. It’s also a time when empathy and care are very important parts of a person’s character.

Have there been any valuable lessons or insights you've gained through your volunteer journey? If so, could you share one or two that have had a significant impact on you?

One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering has been learning so much about leadership. In one of my roles, I managed a fundraiser for a school club, which involved a lot of time management and making sure everything ran smoothly. I also learned some marketing skills during that placement because I had to figure out how to promote and sell items to raise money.

How do you take care of your well-being while pursuing your goals or leadership roles?

Sometimes managing a lot of roles and activities at once can be tiring, so I try to be kind to myself and make sure I give myself time to rest. In my free time, I like to do art, go outside with my friends, do some self-care, and go for walks when I need a break.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?

My advice to anyone who is considering volunteering is to really try your best in whatever you are doing, even if the roles are unpaid. The experiences and skills you gain from volunteering are lifelong and valuable in every field.

Thank you so much for volunteering and making a positive difference, we greatly appreciate your dedication and valuable contributions.

Founded in 2001, the Women in Leadership Foundation (WIL) advances women in leadership and empowers the next generation building diverse workplaces that inspire lasting change across Canada.

Emerging Leaders Placement Project is funded in part by Canada Service Corps, a national movement that empowers youth aged 14-30 to gain experience and build important skills while giving back to their community. Learn more at: Canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps and LeadersCanada.ca