Local HERO
Everyone needs a pal like Maria
SAIHAN ISLAM, 18, EAST LONDON
I’m nominating my volunteer buddy, Maria, 26, as my hero.
Maria was paired with me by disability charity Sense through its buddying scheme.
The scheme matches volunteers with people with disabilities, who are more likely to experience feelings of loneliness.
As someone with autism, this scheme has been a lifeline.
We used to meet up weekly in person, but through the COVID-19 lockdowns, we chatted over the phone and did activities together online.
We have a lot in common like history and politics, and enjoy films and visiting online museums. Having a volunteer buddy is important to me. Maria is someone that I can talk to outside of my family, which is really nice if I’m feeling anxious. She’s always so kind and helpful, and I learn a lot with her, especially about Dunkirk and the Ottomans! I still get worried at times, but Maria helps me take my mind off things. Thanks for being a great friend, Maria!