At a Glance
- Tasks: Support international students by sharing your culture and traditions as a Befriendee Buddy.
- Company: Sesame Organisation, dedicated to mental health support for ESEA communities.
- Benefits: Gain cultural insights, make new friends, and enhance your communication skills.
- Other info: Flexible commitment with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while enriching your own cultural experience.
- Qualifications: Open to anyone passionate about cultural exchange and supporting others.
About the Organisation: Sesame Organisation (previously known as EVR) provides mental health services for people of East and Southeast Asian (ESEA*) heritage (including mixed heritage) in the UK. Our Befriending programme aims to support the wellbeing of international students and newly arrived individuals from ESEA countries/heritages ('befriendees'), by matching them up with UK-based volunteers ('befrienders') to reduce culture shock, encourage cultural exchange, and minimise feelings of loneliness and isolation.
This is a wonderful chance to share your culture and introduce your buddy to your traditions, cuisine, and anything else you'd like to share! This project will kick off in October 2025, when new students arrive, and pairs will be made on a staggered basis until February 2026.
What to Expect: You will be paired with a buddy who is living in the UK city you are studying/living in, and is familiar with the area. When matching you with a friend, we take into account various factors such as gender, age, shared interests, and background. We also consider the preferences you share in the sign‑up sheet below. Your buddy will be part of your support system in the UK, and in return you get the opportunity to share about your home culture and traditions, creating rich cultural exchange.
The extent of your friendship will be determined by you and your assigned Befriender, but some things you may do together include exploring the city, visiting your Befriender's recommended spots, or even just meeting over coffee to discuss any of your questions and concerns.
For further details about the service, check out our info pack here: Access info pack.
Volunteer Befriendee Buddy (International Student) in Bristol employer: Bristol SU Group
Sesame Organisation is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and supporting the mental wellbeing of international students from East and Southeast Asian backgrounds. With a strong emphasis on community, our volunteer programme not only allows you to make a meaningful impact but also offers opportunities for personal growth and connection in a welcoming environment. Join us in creating a supportive network that enriches lives and celebrates diversity in the heart of the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Befriendee Buddy (International Student) in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Sesame Organisation and their mission. Understanding their values will help you connect better with your buddy and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive in reaching out! Once you're matched with your buddy, don’t wait for them to make the first move. Initiate conversations and suggest activities to break the ice and build a strong rapport.
✨Tip Number 3
Share your experiences! Don’t hesitate to talk about your own culture and traditions. This not only enriches your buddy's experience but also fosters a deeper connection between you both.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded! Every buddy is different, so be ready to adapt to their needs and preferences. This will help create a supportive environment where both of you can thrive.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Befriendee Buddy (International Student) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your interests and what makes you unique.
Show Your Passion:Make sure to express why you’re excited about becoming a Befriendee Buddy. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for cultural exchange and supporting others, so let us know what drives you!
Tailor Your Responses:Take a moment to read through the application questions carefully and tailor your answers to reflect how you align with our mission. This shows us that you understand what we’re all about and are committed to making a difference.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and keep everything organised. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol SU Group
✨Know Your Organisation
Before the interview, take some time to research Sesame Organisation. Understand their mission, values, and the specific needs of international students from ESEA backgrounds. This will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest in their work.
✨Share Personal Experiences
Think about your own experiences with culture shock or loneliness, whether as an international student or in any other context. Sharing these personal stories can demonstrate empathy and understanding, which are crucial for a Befriendee Buddy role.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could be about the training process, how they match buddies, or what support is available for volunteers. It shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more about the role.
✨Showcase Cultural Exchange
Be ready to discuss how you plan to share your culture with your buddy. Think about specific traditions, cuisines, or activities you’d like to introduce. This not only highlights your enthusiasm but also aligns perfectly with the programme's goals of cultural exchange.
