Finalist Care Volunteer

Name: Haadi Tarek Shalabi
Volunteer programme: Finalist Care Volunteer for the National Science + Engineering Competition
Occupation: Medical student – final clinical phase

What is your volunteer role? As a Finalist Care Volunteer, my role is to support the current competitors and finalists, using my past experiences to help them get the most from the experience. As an ambassador for the National Science + Engineering Competition, my role is to advocate science and engineering among young people, and to inspire and motivate them to get involved.

How long have you been involved? Since 2008, when competing in the first National Science + Engineering Competition (Grand Finals).

How much time do you spend helping the Competition? Helping each year during the days of The Big Bang Fair (where the finals are held) is the most intense time. Otherwise, as an ambassador, I advocate science and engineering at both a regional and national level. This can involve radio and TV interviews, school talks, and attending regional science and engineering fairs. It doesn’t stop there; there are always plenty of opportunities throughout daily life and interactions!

Why did you get involved with the British Science Association? Initially, it was to encourage scientific competitiveness in young people at regional, national, and international levels. After seeing so many successful students and children, it became my passion to encourage, motivate, and inspire young people to pursue excellence in science and engineering, at any age.

What do you enjoy most about working with the British Science Association? Since day one, it has been a thoroughly enjoyable (and enlightening) experience. Three highlights:
• Encouraging and helping to guide young students in how they can pursue their academic interests
• Opportunities to speak with and learn from world-leading scientists and engineers (and Nobel Prize Winners!) during the events
• Holding an eagle at the most recent Big Bang Fair!

What would you say to those that are interested in volunteering with the Association? Dive in! Working with the foremost young people of today (and tomorrow) is an inspiring and challenging role. There is much to learn when working as a team with the British Science Association, other organisations, and volunteers – on the whole a very unique and rewarding experience.