Act of giving: Isabel (in black) helping out at a soup kitchen.
WHAT if success wasn’t measured by personal accomplishments, but by the lives we touch?
Two years ago, my father introduced my brother and me to volunteering through a Turkiye earthquake relief programme organised by social enterprise Kembara Kitchen.
That day, we stepped into a world of purposeful chaos, filled with community warmth and the aroma of freshly prepared food.
As I stood in the bustling kitchen, observing the hum of activity around me, I felt small amid the flurry of movement. My younger brother and I exchanged glances, unsure of where to start.
In the midst of our confusion, a friendly-looking makcik handed us a stack of bags and said, “Nah, ambil ni.” She then led us to the packing counter.
With her guidance, we tackled the task, packing freshly cooked meals one by one. The hours slipped away as we tirelessly packed over 100 packets of food.
When we finally paused for lunch, I peeked into the cooking area to see my dad hard at work, cooking another batch of kari ayam. The room he stood in was cramped and humid, yet he remained steadfast, stirring the pot with unwavering focus.
Watching him in that moment – sacrificing comfort for the sake of others – filled me with awe. It wasn’t glamorous and was certainly challenging, but it was profoundly meaningful.
My dad’s quiet dedication taught me what selfless love is, and I couldn’t be prouder to call him my father.
My experience at Kembara Kitchen laid the foundation for future opportunities to serve, such as when I had the privilege of volunteering at the 8th Petaling Jaya Junior Boys’ Brigade camp a few months ago.
My role was to assist younger members in setting up their tents and ensuring they felt safe and comfortable throughout the camp.
One quiet night, while on watch, some volunteers and I noticed a small figure wandering in the dark – it was a young camper, sleepwalking.
Moving carefully, we approached him and gently guided him back to his sleeping bag, making sure he was settled before stepping away.
As I returned to my night-watch station, I reflected on the quiet responsibility of looking after them. Ensuring their safety, even in the stillness of the night, felt deeply rewarding. Despite the exhaustion and long hours, the sense of fulfilment made it all worthwhile.
A Boys’ Brigade officer once shared a motto that has stayed with me: “If not you, then who? If not now, then when?”
Watching the good work of my dad and fellow volunteers made me realise that volunteering is not about seeking recognition. It’s about being present when it matters most, creating ripples of kindness even when no one is watching, and making the world just a little brighter for someone else.
Starting your journey as a volunteer is simple.
Begin by identifying a cause that aligns with your interests and values. Next, research local communities or charities working in that area. Consider your availability and the level of commitment you can offer, then reach out to an organisation. No special qualifications are needed – just a genuine willingness to make a difference.
Volunteerism is the secret ingredient to a meaningful life – a recipe anyone can master.
Isabel, 14, a student in Selangor, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star’s Newspaper- in-Education (Star-NiE) team. For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
