Futures Month

And this May we’re coming together in a big way, like never before. We’re pleased to be launching Futures Month – a firm-wide volunteering initiative to make May matter, by joining up and giving back. From providing advice to individuals out of work due to the pandemic, to helping students develop their public speaking skills, Futures Month is an opportunity for all of us to be part of something bigger than ourselves; to make an impact that matters, where it matters.

In the lead up to the event, we’re bringing volunteering to life by sharing stories of our Deloitte colleagues who have volunteered through our 5 Million Futures programme.  

One of these volunteers is Sharnelle, a Tax Partner in London. Here she shares her story.

It runs in the family

Some of my earliest memories are those spent volunteering alongside my family.

As a child growing up in South Africa, my parents ran youth programmes for disadvantaged children in the community. I remember seeing my family dedicate time and energy to help others. This desire to give back was instilled in me at a young age and continues to this day.

Having a desire to give back doesn't mean that it's always easy to do. Between juggling the demands of my professional responsibilities and being a new mother, I know that time is valuable. Finding the time and energy to dedicate to others, no matter how passionate you may be, can be difficult.

Over the years, I've realised it's about making the time to do things you are passionate about. For me, giving back to society is something worth prioritising.

As a leader in the firm, I want others to feel empowered to use their monthly volunteer hours, carving out time to give back too.

Passing the torch

Now that I have a son, making the time to give back has become more important. I remember feeling proud of the work my parents did. Now, I want my son to grow up to recognise what he's got and how he can help other people.

With my son in mind, I felt compelled to volunteer as part of the firm's Black Action Plan. As a mixed-race woman, this cause is personal and I feel accountable to the change I want to see in the world. I want to look my son in the eye, knowing I didn't watch from the side lines.

I volunteer as the lead partner for 5 Million Futures charity Blueprint for All (formerly the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust). The opportunity to support Blueprint for All has enabled me to make an impact in an area I'm passionate about.

When I shut down my machine in the evenings, my volunteer role makes me walk away with a smile and feeling like I've done something important to me.

This is a feeling that's become even more valuable in lockdown. I feel good about what I've contributed at a time when we could all use a little 'feel good' boost.

The wheels turn

Having dedicated plenty of time and energy to volunteer work over the years, I recognise what it’s given me in return. I fondly recall my father saying to me: ‘The wheel turns – for every positive that you’re giving, the wheel turns, and it always comes back to you.’ I look forward to the wheel continuing to turn as I volunteer as part of Futures Month this May.

To find out more about Futures Month follow us on twitter @DeloitteUK_5M.