Volunteer Stories: Avery

What is your role?

I am an Education Volunteer at Edinburgh Zoo. I help out the education team and engage with visitors.

What led you to start volunteering?

I was feeling aimless and working in a job I didn’t enjoy which was affecting my mental health. I saw Edinburgh Zoo, a place I’d always loved visiting, was looking for volunteers so I decided to give it a go.

What attracted you to the heritage and/or conservation sector?

I’ve always loved animals and been interested in conservation, so volunteering with the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) felt like a good way to find some purpose outside of work and learn more about nature.

How has volunteering impacted your life?

I have had so many good times and laughs volunteering with RZSS and it gave me the experience and confidence to get a new job in education and it honestly reshaped how I felt about myself and what I could do. Through volunteering, I got a job in education and then was able to get a seasonal job with RZSS as a summer school teacher, which is my absolute highlight of my work life. I’ve been able to get close to animals, spread my knowledge and love of nature and really engage with people in a welcoming and supportive environment. Volunteering at Edinburgh Zoo changed my life in the best possible way.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I’ve made so many friends and good memories. I can’t thank the people who got me on board and inducted me into volunteering at RZSS enough for how it has changed my life.