When did you first volunteer for Manchester Pride?
2005
What type of volunteering have you done previously?
I am the North West representative on the UK Committee of the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund which was set up to raise funds for the reconstruction and redevelopment of Armenia. This is an entirely voluntary position.
Your best experience whilst volunteering for Manchester Pride?
One event that summed up the whole thing for me was when I went to a bar outside the Village (The Garrett) on the Friday night of the Big Weekend, wearing my volunteer’s pass and t-shirt. I ordered a round of drinks but the Landlord wouldn’t take any money simply because I was a volunteer. He said that he thought we were all doing a great job.
The respect that we, as volunteers, received from the organisers and security was great. We were really made to feel part of the team.
It was wonderful to meet so many great new people (many of whom I have kept in touch with) and feeling that in some small way, I did something to help.
How did you hear about Manchester Pride?
Attending at previous years’ events, publicity material, the regular e-newsletters.
How has volunteering benefited your personal development?
Yes hugely. It is very important to me to be able to give something back. Being a minority in two ways (a gay man and an Armenian), I have realised that it is up to each and everyone of us to stand up and do something to help our communities. Apathy is fatal. It is nice to know that whatever contribution you give, be it time or money, has an effect.
How has volunteering benefited your professional development?
Yes in that it has given me a new outlook on my career and has even begun to make me think about a possible change of career somewhere down the line.
Would you recommend volunteering for Manchester Pride?
Most definitely.
Best Pride moment?
It’s hard to separate the Best Pride moment from the best moment as a volunteer. Being a volunteer was so much fun that it enhanced my enjoyment of the whole event.