Manchester 2023 Volunteer Spotlight #2

Mikki Wright

Tell us a bit about yourself and why you first got involved in volunteering?

I had some free time when I was studying at uni and one of my friends there had done quite a bit of work at British Swimming events previously, so I got involved through him! I thought it would be a great opportunity to give something new a try, network with new people and help out.

What was the title of your volunteer role at London 2019 or any other para swimming event?

I worked in Field of Play at the London 2012 event but don't recall my exact title. I've also worked as Assistant Sports Presentation Manager, Researcher, Camera Operator and Floor Manager at similar events. For the London event my main responsibilities involved making sure everyone was where they should be throughout the event from athletes to VIPs. I was also responsible for the smooth running of heats in the morning and preparing athletes for interviews and medal ceremonies.

What kind of opportunities does volunteering provide? 

As an undergraduate at the time, it gave me a great taster and huge insight into what working life was like, but more specifically, working at live events. It helped me learn what my strengths were and opened doors to working at multiple other events. I also ended up having the opportunity to apply to work with the events team at The ASA/British Swimming after uni. It's not something I ended up pursuing but it did open that door. It also felt extremely rewarding to be helping out with such amazing events showcasing huge talent.

What is your most memorable volunteering experience?

Probably my first event. It was surreal being at the Olympic stadium just before the London Olympics. The most memorable experience was when I heard on my headset that Geri Halliwell was on her way over for a medal ceremony. Getting to give Ginger Spice orders was very surreal! 

What is your advice for anyone considering applying for a role at Manchester 2023?

If you've got the time to do it, I'd definitely recommend it. It'll open so many doors to you and give you a real feel for what working in events is like. You'll likely get the chance to try out different roles too, so it can really shape your future. 

Ellie Bamber

 Tell us a bit about yourself and why you first got involved in volunteering?

I used to be a para swimmer and I am a para swimming coach for Manchester and North west disability swimming club and run a disability swim school, Bambers inclusive swimming. I got involved with volunteering at young age as my brother and sister going to galas, and I would go and volunteer with things like time keeping and team managing. I get a buzz from being involved with events and it’s really nice to give something back to a sport I get so much from.

What was the title of your volunteer role at London 2019 or any other para swimming event? 

I volunteered at the Manchester International Meet during Covid as a Warm Up and Cool Down Marshall and have volunteered in lots of different roles at lower-level meets. Last year I also ran the Bambers Inclusive Gala with my Mum.

 What kind of opportunities does volunteering provide?

Volunteering allowed me to gain confidence when I was a teenager, which helped to get jobs working at the DWP and later in social care. It also helped me get into university to study occupational therapy, as I had volunteered helping teach disabled swimmers. 

I also feel very passionate about supporting young swimmers through volunteering as I have got so much from swimming so the opportunities need to be there to inspire the next generations. Being a disabled volunteer, it also helps in representing the next generation, as you need to be able to see yourself in these roles to believe you can do it too. For example, when I coach it was lovely to hear younger disabled swimmers saying they want to coach when they are older also, having seen myself in the role.

What is your most memorable volunteering experience?

Being poolside at the Manchester international meet after not being able to be at events because of Covid. It was a bit emotional to be back poolside.

What is your advice for anyone considering applying for a role at Manchester 2023?

Apply and get involved - you won't regret it!

If you have any questions regarding volunteer applications ahead of the closing date (24 March 2023), please do not hesitate to email the team at manchester2023@swimming.org. Further information on the Manchester 2023 Para Swimming World Championships can be found at www.britishswimming.org/mcr2023.