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My 5 weeks preparation for CanTeam

Blog written by Walid, student volunteer and a member of the CanTeam Crew at Haberdashers’ Hatcham College.

Introduction

CanTeam is an incredible initiative at our school, aiming to empower students through community service and leadership. I first heard about it through a school assembly where the team’s mission and past achievements were shared. The idea of combining volunteer work with personal growth immediately captured my interest. As a member of the team, I have taken on various roles, from coordinating fundraising events to mentoring younger students who are new to the team. These experiences have not only allowed me to develop my leadership skills but have also given me a sense of responsibility and purpose.

One event that truly inspired me was a community clean-up project we organized last year. Seeing the direct impact of our efforts on the local environment and the appreciation from the community was incredibly fulfilling. Through CanTeam, I have learned that even small actions can make a big difference, and this experience has deeply motivated me to continue contributing to causes that help others.

My CanTeam journey:

Volunteering with CanTeam has provided me with numerous opportunities to develop essential skills that will benefit me in both my personal and professional life. One of the most important skills I have developed is leadership. I have taken on roles where I am responsible for organising events and supporting fellow team members. I have learned how to manage people effectively, delegate tasks, and keep everyone motivated. I have also developed strong communication skills, as working with a diverse group of people requires clear, respectful, and persuasive communication.

In addition to these practical skills, I have gained a deeper understanding of my own strengths and weaknesses. I have discovered that I am capable of staying calm under pressure,

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Final Thoughts:

I would highly recommend joining CanTeam to anyone my age who is looking to make a positive impact on their community and develop valuable life skills. Being part of CanTeam not only allows you to engage in meaningful projects but also helps you grow as a leader, communicator, and problem solver. The experiences I’ve had, have shaped my confidence and perspective in ways I never expected.

If you’re interested in making a difference and pushing yourself to be better, I urge you to get involved. CanTeam offers a chance to create lasting change, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals. Don’t hesitate – the next step in your personal growth and community contribution could be just one decision away!

It was amazing!

Background:

CanTeam is an after-school social dining initiative co-designed with young people that encourages students, their families and local communities to enjoy nutritious and delicious food and activities together.

Launched by Future Foundations in June 2023, CanTeam aims to embed a transformative food culture within schools, enabling young people and communities to thrive.

Over the first 6 months of the initiative, CanTeam was funded and supported by the Big Change Big Education Challenge to develop the concept, consult beneficiaries and test the idea. In January 2024, CanTeam was announced a winner of the Big Education Challenge and is being supported by Big Change to scale across the UK.  

In partnership with Haberdashers Hatcham College, Haberdashers Academy Trust South and Impact Food Group, we piloted a CanTeam planned and run by Year 12 students in their enrichment classes.  They had 5 weeks from launch to their festive dinner.   Click here to read more about the pilot event.  A second pilot will run in the Spring term.

We are excited to continue developing CanTeam and the impact we can have on the health and wellbeing of young people and their families throughout the UK.  

Find out more:

  • Read about CanTeam, our BIG idea for change here

Get in touch, if you think you can help…

We are looking for schools and partners who share our vision and can help us pilot CanTeam at scale. 

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