University of West London Student Named Volunteer of the Year

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Kaire Olesk helped people on and off campus

Kaire Olesk

An Ealing student has been praised for her tireless dedication after helping people across west London overcome challenges during lockdown,

Kaire Olesk was named volunteer of the year by the University of West London (UWL) after using her talents to help families in the community and improve wellbeing on campus - all following more than a decade as a carer supporting children with complex clinical needs.

Since beginning her Psychology BA (Hons) course at UWL, she has continued to dedicate her time to others as a peer mentor and wellbeing champion on campus and coaching A-level students from underprivileged areas achieve their potential.

Kaire, who lives in Ealing and is due to graduate this summer, is now using her time in lockdown to help via an online support group for people across west London, including those facing terminal illness and young people with substance misuse problems.

She said, “It has always been a part of me to try to help when I can. I believe that kindness will help me grow, and if just one person is kind to another then it creates a chain which can help those who really need it.

“I have learned so much at university. I have connected with the students and can understand different perspectives much more now. I have developed a better way of supporting people.

“After this pandemic there will be a lot of people who are finding themselves in a difficult position and we need to understand how every ability is useful and that we all have something to offer.”

Find out more on their web site about UWL’s student wellbeing and support services, as well as their teaching and teaching facilities at the next online open day on June 24. June 23, 2020