Volunteers are vital to RJC Dance, supporting events, classes, performances and so much more. One of our volunteers is Michaela, a passionate dance student whose enthusiasm and warmth shine through every session. We asked her a few questions about her experience and what volunteering at RJC Dance means to her.
Tell us a bit about yourself, what do you do and what are your interests?
Hi, I’m Michaela and I’m a second year studying at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance. Asides from dance (especially ballet and contemporary), I love writing, history, politics, nature and learning languages.
What first inspired you to volunteer with RJC Dance?
I’ve volunteered with various organisations since I was 12, so volunteering has always been an important part of my life. I previously volunteered with organisations predominantly working with women or focusing on historical preservation, so upon moving to Leeds I wanted to find a way to combine my vocation and volunteering. I worked with the fantastic Donald Edwards last year for a BBC documentary and he pointed me in the direction of RJC Dance.
How did you feel when you first joined the organisation?
My immediate answer to this question is a feeling of inspiration and respect towards the staff and volunteers, and of course joy and energy working with the young people. I was also taken aback by RJCD’s strong sense of community.
Which groups or activities have you supported as a volunteer?
The wonderful Shahck Out Teenies on a Monday afternoon.
What does your volunteer role usually involve?
I start the session by welcoming members at the sign in desk. I chat to parents whilst helping the young people sign in before going to class. During the session, I support the incredible Janetta (session tutor) by giving physical demonstrations and joining in with the task, assisting with choreography and managing focus. At the end of the session, I help make sure nobody forgets anything and gets back to their grown up safely!
What skills or strengths have you developed during your time volunteering?
I’ve learnt more about working with young people of this age. Janetta has been a wonderful role model in this domain; showing how you can balance having fun and dancing whilst setting clear expectations for the group. I’d also like to think that I’ve developed a greater intuition with understanding each young person’s personalities and needs.
Can you share a memorable moment from your experience at RJC Dance?
I’ve already got lots of warm memories of RJC Dance but if I had to pick one it would be the time Janetta brought some instruments out – the young people were completely engrossed in making new sounds and rhythms and it was honestly heart – warming to experience!
What positive changes have you noticed in the young people you work with?
I’d say confidence is the main one. Every young person progresses but the greatest difference is often with those who are initially shy and are now happy to stand at the front and be role models to other students. Obviously, I’m biased, but I truly believe dance is the best way to gain the widest variety of skills, especially at such a key stage of a young person’s development. You can really see the improvement not just in the physical and cognitive terms of coordination, balance, musicality and rhythm, but also progress in developing vital interpersonal skills like listening and respect with the other young people and adults in the room.
How would you describe the atmosphere and community at RJC Dance?
Positive, kind, welcoming, hardworking and important.
What have you personally gained from volunteering here?
It’s honestly one of the highlights of my week. I love being surrounded by such energy and joy and a fresh attitude towards dance and movement, which can be so refreshing after long weeks of training. As mentioned before, I feel like I’m beginning to develop a greater understanding of how to support and teach young people of this age. I’d also like to say again that I’ve been very inspired by the selflessness and humility of the staff who work so hard here to do such important work.
Have there been any challenges, and if so, how were you supported?
Sometimes maintaining focus amongst all members of the group can be challenging so Janetta has often helped me to engage the young people and hone attention in ways I wouldn’t have done previously.
What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering at RJC Dance?
Do it! I feel like it’s an injection of joy and light in my week. It’s beneficial for everyone involved and of course the focus is the young people, and they are fantastic.
