Collaboration
While volunteering for the Sydney Marathon, I took on various roles, including hospitality, baggage drop-off, and course marshal. Of all these roles, my work in hospitality was by far the most memorable. I assisted athletes from all over the world, including elite athletes and those with disabilities, from countries like the United States, Canada, Kenya, and Japan. It was an incredible experience to communicate with these athletes and coordinate with physiotherapists, media, and event organisers to provide athletes with services like booking massages, planning exercise routines, and arranging meals.
I also helped the organisers purchase necessary supplies and set up for interviews and meetings. During the shift, I noticed a fellow volunteer, Gary, pacing and staring out the window. I approached him and patiently listened to his disappointment with the indoor work environment. I empathised with his frustration and offered to exchange the work with him. Gary was motivated by the opportunity to head out and showed more initiative and efficiency at work. Our seamless cooperation contributed to the success of the whole hospitality process. Lisa and Nicole (event organisers) recognised our efforts and spoke highly of us.
