Online Volunteering Changed My Life

In Cameroon,upon graduation from the University, many young people write Government exams to be recruited by the Government and such exams are seen as a means to secure a Government  matricule.When you are a Government worker in Cameroon,people tend to respect you.After graduating from the University, I decided to engage in volunteering.I volunteered for 2 years before I finally had a paid job.My friends laughed at me and I can still remember one saying that " Evelyn, you should forget about volunteering . It wont take you anywhere.You should think of writing a Government entrance,even if it means to bribe inoder to secure yourself a matricule.I laughed and said "Alvine,volunteering is my passion.Its my own way of giving back to my community.I love doing it and I believe I will touch the lives of people through it.

In 2014, I thought about online volunteering.Yes it' the perfect idea ,I said to myself.It will give me the opportunity to share my skills to other young people globally.

Weeks later,I started searching for opportunities online .I came across Opportunity Desk and Opportunities for Africans.There are online platforms that provide information about existing opportunities to young people.I subscribed to these platforms and everyday,I recieved opportunities from them through my email.I applied but most often,my applications were rejected. I didn't give up.One day,I saw an oportunity which I applied and  was selected as the lone Cameroonian selected for the UN Global Champion for Women's Economic Empowerment 2015/2016. I was happy but at the same time worried because I was the only Cameroonian.Many other African countries were well represented.The following year when the same call was launched,I encouraged other women and girls in Cameroon to apply. They did and 9 Cameroonians were selected for the program.I was also selected as a  UN Empower Women  Mentor to mentor 4 of  these champions which I did deligently as a volunteer.

I have used online volunteering to assist youths globally on their career goals.I am now an opportunity Desk Mentor and a Judge where I share my knowledge to educate and build the capacities of young people . I am also  a Queen’s Young Leader Mentor .Through online volunteering, I have contributed in making the world a better place and I have been awarded Certificates and Awards from International non -profit organizations.

 Thanks to online volunteering, I have been able to challenge stereotypes and made life long friendships with people around the world.I have fuel the flames of social change.My work has gained visibility and momentum.I have many friends who  have Government matricule running to me for assistance on how they can also engage in online volunteering.

I challenge the youths of today especially the girls and young women to explore and make good use of the internet.It' a bank full of resources and opportunities that can help you change your life.You can start by volunteering online.Online volunteering programs offer unique,immerse opportunities for young people to work with Development organizations.Apply for Fellowships , register to attend conferences ,apply for scholarships.It doesn't matter how many times your applications are rejected just keep on making use of the internet and one,you will have a story to share on how internet usage changed your life.