Volunteering has always been something I’ve been passionate about, so when the opportunity arose to dedicate part of my 80 hours of apprenticeship volunteering to a meaningful cause, I knew I had to take it. After extensive research, I chose to travel to Busua, a small village in Ghana, where I would be teaching children from underprivileged backgrounds...

Self-funding the trip, I arrived in Busua with an open mind but little idea of what to expect. From the moment I stepped into the community, I was struck by its warmth. Despite having so little, the people were welcoming, resilient, and driven by a strong sense of togetherness. It was inspiring to witness. My role as a volunteer teacher spanned different age groups - from assisting three and four-year-olds who barely spoke English to leading maths lessons for teenagers. One of my biggest challenges came on my first day when the teacher didn’t turn up. With no backup plan, I suddenly found myself leading a class of eager students. Thinking on my feet, I picked up a textbook and delivered a lesson on numbers. It was a defining moment that reinforced my ability to adapt, problem-solve, and communicate effectively - skills I’ve since applied to my work at Hitachi Rail.

Building Connections and Overcoming Challenges

One of the biggest takeaways from my time in Ghana was the power of empathy and resourcefulness. Teaching in a classroom where students didn’t have basic supplies like pens and notebooks forced me to rethink how I communicate and engage. I had to get creative in my teaching approach, often using gestures, drawing on the board, and interactive learning methods to get my message across.

A student named Frank particularly stood out to me. His passion for learning maths was inspiring. Despite the challenges he faced, he was always eager to push himself further. He once said, "Sir, you teach me maths, and I will teach you to surf after school." That became our deal, and the bond we built is something I will never forget.

Beyond teaching, I also had the chance to support a medical clinic set up in the village, helping to triage patients. Seeing the healthcare struggles firsthand was eye-opening, but it also reinforced how important communication is - whether explaining symptoms in a medical setting or collaborating with colleagues in my apprenticeship.

Lessons That Carry Into my Career at Hitachi Rail

Returning from Ghana, I carried a renewed perspective into my role at Hitachi Rail. The experience taught me to appreciate the importance of teamwork, resilience, and adaptability - crucial in life and business.

Now working as a software apprentice with an international team, I collaborate daily with colleagues from Portugal and beyond. Many of them speak English as a second language, and the lessons I learned in Ghana about clear, thoughtful communication have proven invaluable. I also gained a deeper appreciation for problem-solving and flexibility, skills that are critical in my field.

This experience didn’t just shape me personally; it helped me become a better teammate and professional. I’ve learned that stepping outside of your comfort zone - whether that’s leading a classroom in a foreign country or tackling new challenges at work - pushes you to grow in ways you never expect.

Why Volunteering Matters

Looking back, my time in Ghana was more than just a volunteering trip - it was a transformational experience. It reinforced my passion for helping others and reminded me that even small actions can create a meaningful impact.

For anyone considering volunteering, whether locally or internationally, I would say: go for it. The rewards are immeasurable, and the skills you develop - empathy, adaptability, and leadership - will stay with you far beyond the experience itself.

At Hitachi Rail, we often talk about "Skills for Life", and this experience truly embodied that. Volunteering gave me skills I never expected to develop, and it has influenced how I approach challenges, teamwork, and leadership in my career.

If you ever have the chance to step outside your day-to-day role and immerse yourself in something new, I’d highly encourage you to take it - you might be surprised at just how much you grow!

To find out more about how apprentices at Hitachi Rail are making an impact, follow our National Apprenticeship Week updates on LinkedIn.