From Unpaid to Unstoppabe: How Volunteering Launched My Career

By Variety Thabane

Growing up in a small town with big dreams and limited opportunities, I knew I had to work harder than most to create a future I could be proud of. Despite setbacks, rejection, and financial challenges, I never gave up. When doors wouldn't open for me, I found a different way in through volunteering.

This inspiring and practical guide is based on my real-life journey as a young woman from Mpumalanga, South Africa, who went from unpaid volunteer work to working for one of the most empowering organizations in her industry. In this book, I share why volunteering is more than just giving free labor, how to turn a volunteer role into a stepping stone for paid employment, and how to choose the right organization that aligns with your goals. I also talk about the importance of building a powerful professional network through service, and the lessons I learned along the way from rejection to recognition.

Whether you're a recent graduate, a jobseeker, or someone looking for a fresh start, this book will show you that sometimes the best way to move forward is by first giving back. Your story is not stuck you just need a new way in. Start with what you can give: your time, your passion, and your willingness to grow.