Seb’s Journey:
From Participant to Youth Worker
Seb’s story is a Wonderful one—from participant to youth worker.
At Wonder Arts, we’re always proud here to share the journeys of our young people, participants, staff & volunteers. Today we’re putting a spot light on Seb, who started with us as a participant in one of our communities of wonder project before moving on to become a valued volunteer and now has stepped into a full-time Youth Worker role. His path is shaped not just by skills, but by friendship, and a wonderful spirit.
Seb spoke to us about his time volunteering, the experience he gained, and how Wonderarts helped prepare him for the next step:
Can you give us some of your stand out moments from your time volunteering with Wonderarts?
“I remember being really nervous to begin with and unsure if I'd ever be able to lead on any activity, I thought i might just move on to something different. But Danny helped me out, integrating some of my skills that i already had such as art and DnD into sessions where i could assist and take some leading roles in (with help from Danny and Charles bringing the energy and acting into D&D!)”
What experience have you gained by being a volunteer and how have Wonder Arts supported you?
“By volunteering at Wonder Arts I have been given experience in interacting with young people, and experience in assisting and leading in youth sessions”
How was the transition from volunteering to youth work?
“There was a lot to learn, but it was a lot easier than it would have been if I hadn't been at Wonder Arts before hand. Gradually i started doing more stuff and was given practice on leading on some dungeons and dragons sessions.”
What’s the most wonderful thing about Wonder Arts?
“The atmosphere for both staff and young people is amazing, a place to truly be yourself and be given opportunities to flourish.”
Watching Growth First-Hand
Daniel Woods, our Engagement Manager, has been there to witness Seb’s progression over the last few years:
“We couldn’t be happier to have worked with Seb over the last 2 years as a volunteer. To see his confidence grow and his skills develop in that time has been remarkable and we’re thrilled to see him move on to a full-time Youth Worker role.”
“This is why we’re passionate about developing creative pathways for young people through our Communities of Wonder programme. Seb has progressed from participant to volunteer and is now employed to support young people in St Helens, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
Seb’s journey shows how creativity and community can open doors to new opportunities—and we can’t wait to see what he does next.