Catherine moved to London from China in 2012 and first began volunteering in the same year. As a regular One Day Challenge volunteer, 32-year-old Catherine says she loves volunteering with the V Team because it is so varied.

I was first inspired to volunteer as I wanted to be a role model for my daughter. In 2013 I won the Independent Volunteer of the Year at the annual V Awards and this year I achieved a Silver Award for my volunteering. I have gained so much from volunteering, from life long memories to experience which will help me to find a job!"

Catherine also credits volunteering for her being successful in applying for the International Ambassador role with the International Office, which meant that she was awarded a scholarship of £5000 to pay for her course fees.

In my role as International Ambassador I was a role model to other Chinese students and I feel my volunteer experiences played a big part in me being awarded the scholarship. I wanted to encourage other Chinese students to get involved in volunteering and to take inspiration from me."

Volunteering is an amazing opportunity to learn, as well as make new friends and practise my English. I myself will continue to volunteer when I leave UWL and will never forget the good memories I had of my time with the V Team."