Meet Leona, Afrocats project assistant

Afrocats sat down with Leona (pictured above right) one of our passionate Project Assistants, to hear about her volunteering journey, her creative background, and what drives her to keep giving her time and energy to the community.

Currently studying BA (Hons) Craft at Manchester Metropolitan University, Leona brings a unique artistic flair and heartfelt curiosity to every session she helps deliver - read on to find out more about her experiences.

Getting involved

Leona first connected with Afrocats during a Whitworth May half-term event, where she supported the art sessions led by artist Loren.

‘It was such an enlightening experience,’ she says. ‘That day really inspired me to keep volunteering in the future.’

What began as a single event quickly turned into a lasting commitment, and Leona has now been volunteering for six months, and more recently, working on placement with the team.

From creativity to community

Our placements work with a wide range of communities across Manchester.

When asked what motivated her to get started, Leona explains that she wanted to explore how her love for art could be shared in different spaces.

‘I wanted to see how creativity could bring people together,’ she says. ‘And I hoped to meet others who are just as passionate about the arts as I am.’

‘The joy and connection I feel working with such positive, caring people… that makes it all worth it.'

Her role has grown to include supporting art facilitators, assisting in community sessions, and contributing to programmes like Building Stronger Communities Together and our Natives of the World project stream, both of which she describes as ‘incredible experiences’ that have expanded her understanding of collaboration and cultural exchange.

A day in Leona’s shoes

No two days are the same for Leona, but she describes a ‘typical’ one as a blend of creativity and organisation.

‘In the morning, I might help with the Bangladeshi Women’s Society dance sessions,’ she explains. ‘Then I’ll catch up on admin, upload registrations, and later in the day, I’ll assist with our Indian senior citizens.’

Between these moments, she balances her university work and personal art practice, often spending her free time making ceramics, digital drawings, or handmade cards.

‘I’ve learned so much and gained experiences I never would have had otherwise.’

‘Creating is a huge part of who I am,’ she says. ‘But I also love volunteering in other settings, like forest school. I want to connect with as many people and communities as possible.’

Moments that matter

Inclusive Roma-inspired creations on our Whitworth half-term collaboration

Reflecting on her time with Afrocats so far, Leona says what means the most is being welcomed into so many diverse communities.

‘It’s such a blessing to witness the love, support, and kindness people share in our sessions,’ she says. ‘It reminds me how bright the world feels when you share it with others.’

One of her standout memories was a session on our recent summer forest school: ‘The children’s enthusiasm was so heart-warming,’ she recalls. ‘Me and Shanie made ivy headdresses and dressed as the ‘Queens of the Forest’, and the kids’ excitement and imagination made the whole day magical.’

Lessons learned

Volunteering, she says, has completely reshaped her perspective. ‘I’ve seen a whole new level of compassion and teamwork. Not just from participants, but from the Afrocats team too. Being involved with different cultures has opened my heart and mind in ways I didn’t expect.’

Leona also wants to clear up a common misconception about volunteering: that the organisation gains more than the volunteer does. ‘That couldn’t be further from the truth,’ she insists. ‘I’ve learned so much and gained experiences I never would have had otherwise.’

Advice for future volunteers

Her advice for anyone considering volunteering is simple: just go for it. ‘It’ll be one of the best decisions you make,’ she says. ‘You’ll meet amazing, open-minded people who share your passion, and you’ll grow so much, both personally and creatively.’

Balancing university, work, and volunteering can be challenging at times, she admits, but the Afrocats team’s support makes it manageable. “Everyone is so understanding and compassionate. It’s easy to ask for help when you need it.’

Staying inspired

So what keeps Leona motivated to keep showing up with such warmth and enthusiasm?

‘It’s remembering the difference we can make,’ she smiles. ‘The joy and connection I feel working with such positive, caring people… that makes it all worth it.'

Feeling inspired by Leona’s story? Join our vibrant community of volunteers and help make a difference through creativity, culture, and connection.

Find out how to get involved at our ‘Join Us’ page.