Mastering the Art of Giving | Violet Wu, Swire Trust Go-Givers of 2023

Together with Time Auction, the Swire Trust Go-Givers Program encourages skilled volunteers for Swire Trust NGO partners in education, marine conservation, and arts. From now to 2025. 10 outstanding volunteers will be selected annually as the “Swire Trust Go-Givers of the Year” with special rewards & recognition. Meet our 10 Go-Givers of 2023!

Meet Violet 

Violet Wu has developed a passion for volunteering, much like how others develop hobbies such as coffee-tasting and working out. Over the years, she has participated in meal distribution drives for the elderly, and even became a volunteer Rugby coach when her kids joined the local team. “I always feel like there’s something missing if I’m not involved in a volunteer project!”

Contrary to the common misconception that frequent volunteers must have plenty of free time, but don’t be fooled! Violet maintains a full-time job as a product and graphic designer. A few years ago, she pursued a Master's degree in Marketing Management. She also moved from Hong Kong to Canada during this time. Her schedule is definitely packed!

Despite these life changes and a very busy schedule, Violet has consistently volunteered as a Social Media Content Creator. Read on to discover and learn more about her incredible passion for volunteering. 

The Best of Both Worlds

When Violet discovered the Time Auction platform, she had just completed her Master’s degree in Marketing Management. Her studies had sparked her interest and curiosity in marketing, leading her to acquire a new skill set. However, she realised she had no desire to completely change her career as she loved being a designer!

Upon encountering the Social Media Content Creator role at CantoGather, Violet was captivated by this opportunity for two reasons. Firstly, it allowed her to combine her interests in graphic design and marketing without drastically changing her career. Secondly, she was drawn and believed in CantoGather’s mission: to empower ethnic minority children in Hong Kong through Cantonese education programs and more. Reflecting on this, Violet stated, "As a new immigrant in Canada, I can deeply relate to the desire to 'fit in'. The children CantoGather helps are not less capable of fitting in - they’re just not given enough opportunities to do so."

Creating Tangible, Lasting Impact

As an experienced graphic designer, Violet had to learn how to use new design tools specifically tailored for social media. "This was my first time using Canva. I found it faster and more convenient than some of the traditional tools I'd previously used."

Alongside another volunteer Social Media Content Creator, Violet played a leading role in designing, creating and scheduling posts for CantoGather’s social channels. “I learned a lot during the collaboration process. And we’re a super efficient team! Everyone was incredibly organized and we worked really well together.” 

Beyond working with a fantastic team, Violet’s derived satisfaction from the tangible impact she made through her work for CantoGather. “Of course, I was very happy to see Instagram follower numbers increase. But more importantly, the posts also had a lasting, long-term impact. They raised awareness for the CantoGather’s movement, but also attracted more people to attend its fundraising events, allowing CantoGather to raise the funds they needed. I know that my efforts were not wasted.” 

Start Building Your Volunteering Habit

The saying 'do what you love, and you'll never work another day' may be a cliché, but it perfectly encapsulates Violet's feelings toward volunteering. "I enjoy designing and drawing, so incorporating it into my schedule was effortless!"

Violet was surprised to be named one of the Swire Trust Go-Givers of 2023 - she found the role so fulfilling that she lost track of the hours she had contributed! Nevertheless, she is very grateful for the recognition.

To her, volunteering is more than just donating time to a cause. "I genuinely see volunteering as an opportunity for personal growth and skill development."

If you’re considering volunteering, Violet strongly encourages you to give it a try. “I would suggest finding a project or cause that truly resonates with you. Volunteering becomes effortless when you're passionate about a cause. And just like any new endeavour, consistency is key. Once volunteering becomes a habit, it naturally integrates into your daily life!”

Thank you Violet for contributing 45 volunteer hours, with CantoGather! 

To see details of the Swire Trust Go-Givers Program and support their NGO partners, head over to Time Auction website.