At a Glance
- Tasks: Support international students by sharing your culture and exploring the UK together.
- Company: Sesame Organisation, dedicated to mental health support for ESEA communities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make new friends, and enhance cultural understanding.
- 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 perspective.
- 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 Befriending Buddy for International Students in Bristol employer: Bristol SU Group
Sesame Organisation is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for volunteers. By joining our Befriending programme, you will not only contribute to the wellbeing of international students but also engage in meaningful cultural exchanges that enrich both your life and the lives of others. Our collaborative work culture encourages personal growth and offers unique opportunities to connect with diverse communities in the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Befriending Buddy for International Students in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Sesame Organisation and their mission. Understanding their values will help you connect better during your conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your cultural exchange stories! Think about what aspects of your culture you want to share with your buddy. This will not only make you more relatable but also show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! Authenticity is key when building connections. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through; it’ll help you bond with your buddy and make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows your commitment to joining our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Befriending Buddy for International Students 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 Befriending Buddy. Share your enthusiasm for cultural exchange and how you hope to support international students in their journey.
Tailor Your Responses:Take a moment to read through the application questions carefully and tailor your answers to reflect the role. Highlight any relevant experiences or skills that make you a great fit for this position.
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 track of your application. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol SU Group
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand what being a Volunteer Befriending Buddy entails. Familiarise yourself with the goals of the programme and how it supports international students. This will help you articulate your motivation and how you can contribute to the wellbeing of your buddy.
✨Share Your Cultural Insights
Since this role is all about cultural exchange, think about what unique aspects of your culture you can share. Prepare examples of traditions, cuisine, or experiences that could enrich your buddy's time in the UK. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to making a meaningful connection.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some questions about the organisation and the befriending programme. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if this role aligns with your values and expectations.
✨Show Empathy and Understanding
As a befriender, you'll be supporting someone who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. During the interview, highlight any past experiences where you've shown empathy or helped others. This will reassure the interviewers that you have the right mindset for this important role.
