Over the last 3 months, Future Talent has had a volunteer, Julie, helping out in the office taking on all sorts of jobs! We interviewed Julie to see what her experience was like with Future Talent.
April 24, 2026
Why did you choose to volunteer with Future Talent?
I’m currently at university in Switzerland, studying English linguistics and literature. As part of my degree, I have to complete a “Stay Abroad”, which basically means, I have to spend time in an English-speaking country and have an occupation, that requires me to actively use the English language. My goal was to take this as an opportunity to do some volunteering, something I might not get the chance to again, after finishing my degree. Since I worked in an administrative job before, I thought my skills in this area would be the biggest resource I could offer to a charity, and so I looked for a place where these skills could be of use. In the end, it was my love for music that brought me to Future Talent.
How did you find settling in?
On my first day, I was immediately welcomed into the team, and it didn’t take long for me to feel like I belong. The team’s dedication to their cause quickly inspired the same in me, and I found myself actively taking part in discussions and contributing my own opinions in strategy meetings.
How is working with the charity?
Future Talent is a small charity, where every person has their own role, each of them equally as important as the other. Because of this, every person has a voice, and everyone’s inputs are listened to, discussed and implemented. All in all, everyone is incredibly supportive of one another, working together to achieve the best possible opportunities for the young musicians the charity supports. I was able to help with many different jobs, like organising cupboards, collecting donations at events and helping with administration. I feel satisfied knowing my work contributes to the cause.
What surprised you the most?
In the world of charitable work, the donors, investors and supporters are what make this kind of endeavour possible. It would be easy to prioritise making money and securing more funds. I was impressed, however, that the focus always remains on the young musicians, on what they need and what benefits them the most. The young musicians are at the centre of every decision.
What is the most exciting/interesting thing you experienced so far?
As volunteer with Future Talent, I had the honour to attend a concert by the Bach Choir, in memory of the late Duchess of Kent. This was an incredible experience, and the Duke of Kent was present.
But observing and taking part in the more every day work is equally as interesting to me. Rather than everyone working on their own, at Future Talent collaboration is the key. This includes both structured meetings on the charity’s mission, as well as spontaneous actions like “Tidy up Tuesday”, an impromptu office clean out. Beyond that, the team is in constant communication with one another, creating a positive atmosphere, for example by starting every team meeting with “Something to shout about”, one thing, however big or small, that made them happy the week prior to the meeting.
How does your experience with the charity impact you beyond the volunteering?
Coming from Switzerland, it is obviously an extraordinary experience for me to live and work abroad, especially in a city like London. At the heart of creativity and artistic production, I feel all the more connected to Future Talent’s mission.
This whole experience has shaped me as a person and I can definitely see myself working in the charity sector, after I finish my degree. Working with Future Talent showed me, that we can have a real impact if we put our minds to it.
Anything you would like to add?
I know that I am extremely fortunate to have this opportunity. I am truly grateful to everyone who made this possible for me. Special thanks to Ben, Chris, Ella, Frances, Jordan and Tash!
