Meet our Volunteers: Sheena D'Souza

Continuing with our “Meet the Volunteer” series, we would like to introduce you to one of our newest volunteers, Sheena!

Name: Sheena D’Souza

I am from Australia — Melbourne. As a true Melbournian at heart, I love and appreciate a good coffee! My husband and I moved to Switzerland in October 2019 and we are absolutely loving living here!

I always look forward to and support people to become and stay amazing at their job. I am currently remotely working in e-learning and training for a language school.

What personal experiences drew you to charity work?

In 2011 I took part in the 100km Oxfam Trailwalker, an event dedicated to fundraising for the fight against injustice and poverty. As a team of four, we walked 100km in 36 hours, which we were quite proud of as the time limit to finish the walk is 48 hours. I was part of a great team, and we motivated each other all the way, not just during and after the Trailwalker, but also when we were fundraising and training for the event.

I have always felt strongly about fighting for injustice, poverty and social causes. I’ve been serving as a volunteer for 11+ years for Conservation Volunteers Australia, Oxfam Australia, and now Zharity in Switzerland.

How did you get involved in Zharity?

I was lucky enough to meet Amanda Hunsaker at an event where she was presenting Zharity and addressing the values of volunteering. I was intrigued by Zharity’s mission and values. It was inspiring to meet Amanda and the members of Zharity, from their energy and passion, I really wanted to be part of the Zharity team and cause. Amanda shared that Zharity was looking for a Corporate Social Responsibility Coordinator, I felt that I could take on the role as I had experience in active volunteering, client relationship management and developing programs. It was an instant connection and I am very happy and grateful to be part of the Zharity team!

What projects are you working on right now? 

I am coordinating the Corporate Social Responsibility programs for Zharity, liaising closely with clients to develop programs. Currently growing our Virtual COVID-19 project, connecting small businesses to corporate clients, helping and supporting them virtually during these difficult times.