In March earlier this year, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to volunteer at the Malvern Festival Of Ideas 2026 at MSJ, as part of my Bronze DofE award. For me, this was my first time volunteering at a festival. The experience was insightful, inspiring, and interactive; a great way to improve my confidence, build connections, meet new people and get a feel for what it’s like to work in an environment like this.
Being a volunteer, I got to talk to new people and help out across the venue. Some skills that came in useful when volunteering were:
- Communication, being able to communicate clearly was key to help direct people and answer any questions they may have.
- Social skills, on the festival weekend, I was welcoming people into sessions and there to take any feedback or concerns from visitors attending the festival.
Over the festival weekend, I went to some very inspiring talks- my favourite being the family session with Michael Rosen. In this talk, Michael Rosen engaged with the audience, encouraging them to use their imagination through storytelling and rhyme. If I could sum this session up in 3 words they would be – imaginative, playful and interactive. Michael Rosen touched on his books, childhood and creative stories that grasped the audience’s attention!
I strongly recommend coming along next year to Malvern Festival Of Ideas 2027, either as an audience member or a volunteer. You will have fun, listen to inspirational speeches, talks, and stories all while enjoying the great atmosphere of the festival itself!
Rosa
