If you have followed me for long enough, you might have spotted lots of my activities related to film. Yet, very few realize those are “volunteer” or in a broader term, “community-oriented”. I don’t claim to be the leading or solo film activism. But when it comes to “volunteerism”, for the past 16 years, I personally find it taken for granted by Cambodian youth. Through this post, you’ll discover what “volunteerism” really means to me and which key factors to consider before taking part in such a cause.
1. Your Passion or Interest
I’d put this factor above all else, just because who are we, without that passion? For me, I tried different callings such as teaching or translation. But nothing beats my heart louder like “film production and festival organization”. So not only is it my passion, it has become my “mission”. As you can follow CSFF, we have even developed this slogan we stick to in the last few years: “Your Short Film, Our Mission”. I’m sure if you find that passion you’d like to volunteer in, you’d never feel like working another day! It’s all about “play” or “fun” time.
2. Your Time Commitment
When life is NOT all about “passion”, you have other key areas of it to fill up. So balancing up your schedules to commit to that passion is paramount to the next stages of your existence. You could lose money and still earn it back. But if you lost time, to what didn’t even matter to you in the first place, regrets would keep haunting you like an unresolved spirit. So after finding your passion, slot specific time to commit to its processes or activities. If you still can’t find time dedicated to such interest, maybe it is NOT meant for you as a true calling. Better quit it even before you sign up!
3. The Organization’s Profile and Relevancy
This factor comes later as it’s considered “external” and a bit beyond our control. Still, with enough homework or due diligence, you’ll find out if such and such organizations or events are worth your volunteerism. I suggest that, besides that relevancy with your passion, look for “coaching” or “training” platforms in those causes. If they tolerate your mistakes, during your volunteerism, and give you a second chance to improve your learning curve, try and hang in there. Your direct supervisor play an important part in your personal and professional development. If you come across a compassionate one, commit your time to their assignments or lessons. Keep in mind that you are not following them as persons. You are only following the most pertinent path toward your wildest dreams.
In short, let your passion guide you to dedicated time management and selection of proper nurturing environments. Then, your volunteerism will remain not only the best experience you could ever live, but also rewarding stepping stones to your main goals in life. And life is TOO SHORT to volunteer in a wrong cause!
PS: If you feel like joining me and other dedicated souls in CSFF this year, hit this link and apply now! Make sure you calculate the three key factors above and relevant positions here, before you put your heart and time on our momentum.
