Hallam FM

Only six years ago 17 year old John Rwothomach followed his parents over to the UK from Uganda, and now he's set to be part of the biggest sporting event in the world, as he is one of the lucky ones to be picked from over 250,000 applicants for volunteer places at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

When John moved over from Uganda he had difficulty understanding the English spoken here, but his confidence grew gradually and after shining in sports leadership with his school he was selected to join the Sheffield Academy of Young Leaders In Sport (SAYLS) at age 15.

He has volunteered at many of the elite sporting events hosted here in Sheffield, from the Table Tennis World Championships to the European Volleyball Championships gaining vital experience which has seen him go on to successfully apply for a place at the Olympics.

John says: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It’s still not hit me! Volunteering has done so much to improve my confidence and my communication skills, as well as practical skills working at events. I know I’ll be volunteering at Olympic volleyball, and it’s such a great feeling!"

The next large sporting event looking for local people to volunteer is the British Universities and Colleges Sport Championships on the 14-18 March. This Olympic style multi sport event takes place in several venues across Sheffield, with the best university sports people competing, many of who will be looking to compete in their sport internationally in the future. If you've been inspired by John's story and would like to have the chance to gain new skills, knowledge and meet new people, then contact Susie Roach at Sheffield City Council on Susie.roach@sheffield.gov.uk