Meet Our Volunteers

Lindsey Mays

Student Opportunities Lead in Volunteering at Teesside University, rolled up her sleeves with a group of students to take part in Nineyards’ Big Community Dig. Together, they helped turn our allotments into thriving community spaces – and discovered just how powerful volunteering can be for confidence, connection and wellbeing.

“My role at Teesside University sees me work with local charities and not-for-profit organisations to match them with students who want to get involved with volunteering opportunities. Teesside University and MEC have worked in partnership for many years, so it was great to be able to get our hands dirty and help transform the site.

“We worked alongside other volunteers and the Nineyards team to clear overgrown areas, prepare beds for growing vegetables and plant seeds. For some students it was their very first volunteering experience, so being there to support and encourage them was really special. It was an amazing way to build confidence, create connections and see first-hand the benefits of volunteering.

“Volunteering brings a strong sense of belonging, supports mental and physical wellbeing, and allows people to connect with the outdoors – all of which are incredibly powerful.

“What stood out most was the laughter and the sense of connection. Everyone came together so naturally – sharing stories, taking an interest in one another, and just enjoying being part of something positive. The biscuits and endless cups of tea definitely helped too! I also loved meeting other organisations and volunteers – it’s always great to network and share experiences.

“One moment I’ll never forget was with an international student who was completely amazed by the nature around her. From robins and frogs to minibeasts and flowers, she was seeing things she’d never experienced before in her home country. Seeing the sense of wonder on her face that day is something I’ll always remember.

“I didn’t expect to get so much from just a few hours outdoors. It had a really positive impact on my own mental wellbeing, and knowing we were contributing to something that would benefit the wider community was incredibly powerful. I also developed my confidence and communication skills, even pushing myself out of my comfort zone by being filmed for a video – something I did to show students that it’s okay to feel nervous and still give things a go.

“Volunteering makes me feel energised and proud that I’m making a difference. The experience with Nineyards reinforced how important volunteering is and how it opens the door to experiences you might never otherwise have. I already volunteer at my local village hall, but this encouraged me even more to champion volunteering in outdoor and green spaces.

“My message for anyone thinking about volunteering but isn’t sure is simple: DO IT! You’ll build skills, grow in confidence, meet incredible people and walk away with a feeling that’s hard to beat – knowing you’ve given your time to support something that really matters.”

Visit our Volunteering page to find out more. If you have any enquiries about volunteering with us then please email: matthew.allen@nineyards.org.uk or call 01642 579820.

Maame Tiwaa

Maame Tiwaa studies Business Administration at Teesside University. She volunteered with Nineyards to help transform overgrown allotment sites into thriving hubs where sustainable food can be grown and community wellbeing events hosted. She tells us why volunteering matters so much to her…

“For me, the best thing about volunteering is how it builds self-confidence.

“I’ve volunteered a few times before – and in a variety of working environments – so I know how great volunteering can be for developing news skills, meeting new people and discovering things about yourself that you didn’t know you could do.

“I wanted to volunteer with Nineyards because I wanted to learn more about the work they do and the people who work and volunteer there. I really enjoyed helping to create thriving allotment sites, replenishing the soil and creating space for growing vegetables. I learnt a lot about the land, about seasonal growing, sustainability and planting.

“Helping my local community is an important motivation for me. Being able to give something back makes you feel great.

“I’d recommend volunteering to anyone. It’s such a fantastic way of learning new skills and opening new opportunities that will help you in the future. Give it a go!”