Posted on 13/05/2015
Student Samuel Wong being presented with his award by British sailor Tracey Edwards MBE
Criminology and Psychology student Samuel Wong has been named Surrey’s Volunteering Superstar of the Year 2015 for his work running sing-along sessions with residents of local care homes.
The Sing-Along Surrey project, which Samuel leads with fellow Community Action volunteers Mandy Sze, Emily Hall, Clare Sutherland, Enia Patricio and Beth Woollacott, was also highly commended in the Surrey Young Superstars Awards 2015.
The initiative, which was set up in 2013 in a bid to engage and interact with older members of the community, involves volunteers and members of student societies Savoy Opera, Absolute Harmony, and Musical Theatre putting together songbooks and facilitating singing sessions that include wartime favourites. It also aims to help participants gain a better understanding and appreciation of each other's generation.
“It has been very rewarding to see how our singing sessions have had a positive impact on the well-being of care home residents”, said Samuel. “It is a privilege and an honour to receive the Volunteering Superstar of the Year award for this project. Volunteering at Royal Holloway has been a great way for me to meet new friends, get involved in new activities, learn new skills and improve my CV, all while helping local people.”
Each year the Sing-Along Surrey initiative concludes with a finale concert. This year it was held on 18th March in Royal Holloway’s Picture Gallery, where all the participants were invited to attend for afternoon tea.
The Surrey Young Superstars Awards 2015, which were held in Guildford, on Sunday, 10 May, are organised by Haslemere Travel in partnership with Surrey Youth Focus and shine a spotlight on the many achievements of young people in Surrey. The awards were presented by British sailor Tracey Edwards MBE.
For further information about the Community Action team, click here.