Volunteer Spotlight on ... Ameen!

Our Volunteer of the Year!  

We are thrilled to announce that Ameen Yousaf, a volunteer with Healthy Minds for seven fabulous years, was the joint-winner of the Volunteer of the Year at this year’s CFFC Community Spirit Awards, held on Nov 23rd. You can watch the highlights from the ceremony here.

Ameen has been an incredible volunteer for Healthy Minds. He joined us following mental health issues related to worsening issues with his eyesight because of meningitis. Ameen now co-facilitates our Self-Management Group, our Elland Anxiety and Depression Group, as well as telephone befriending, while in the past he has also been involved with a men’s group with our Roshani project. 

Ameen approaches his volunteering role with unwavering commitment, skill, empathy and compassion and everyone at Healthy Minds loves to work alongside him. He has given hundreds of hours of his time, not just to us but for Project Colt and the Samaritans as well! A true ambassador for volunteers and volunteering everywhere! 
 
Want to learn more about Ameen? Read on!

Describe yourself in three words: 
Funny, loyal, adventurous. 

What would your superpower be? 
To end unhappiness in the world and to see into the future. 

Likes: 
Music, singing. 

Dislikes: 
Liars and snakes. 

Who is your hero/heroine?  
Mum and Dad. 

Favourite place: 
The seaside. 

What’s the best thing about volunteering at Healthy Minds?  
I love making a difference to lives and learning about other people. I have a real passion and drive to help empower people and I love volunteering alongside the other fab volunteers. I feel such a sense of achievement and am proud to volunteer for Healthy Minds.  ​​​

---

What Healthy Minds says:

Ameen has a natural kindness and reassuring manner, amongst many other wonderful qualities, which he brings effortlessly to his group facilitator role. He is a highly respected and skilled volunteer. - Kath 

He always has time for people and listens with respect. He brings a great sense of kindness and humour and is a very popular volunteer.  - Sharon 

Ameen, you made me feel very welcome. I really enjoyed the group today.  - Group Participant 

Ameen has always been a pleasure to work with. He brings good conversation often spilling with laughter! We need more Ameens!  - Neelam

Images by Roth Read Photography