Volunteering with IIA Singapore: A Wickedly Rewarding Experience
Two years ago, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and do something uncharacteristic: volunteer with IIA Singapore’s Young Professionals Working Group (YPWG). While I had previously volunteered with charitable organisations, those experiences were usually ad hoc and tied to corporate volunteering initiatives. This, however, was different - it was a commitment beyond corporate obligations. What a ride it has been!
Following the conclusion of our tenure, I was asked to reflect on my journey and share insights into the highs and lows of volunteering.
Networking Opportunities
This one’s a given - volunteering opens doors to expanding your professional and social circles. During my time with YPWG, I met internal auditors from diverse industries and career stages. One encounter stands out: a homemaker returning to the workforce after 17 years to become an internal auditor. We exchanged stories and tips on certifications, and I walked away inspired by her resilience and dedication.
Her story was a powerful reminder that learning never stops. Meeting such remarkable individuals at YPWG events has been a privilege, and these connections are among the greatest rewards of volunteering.
Giving Back and Making an Impact
A key objective of YPWG is tertiary outreach, which gave me opportunities to share my experiences with university students. At first, I felt apprehensive. Would my insights matter? I am not a veteran or an expert. To my surprise, the students and professors appreciated our authentic and relatable stories. Hearing that our reflections bridged gaps in understanding the profession was incredibly fulfilling.
These interactions also encouraged me to reflect on my career. It is easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to pause, reflect, and reset our intentions. Speaking to young undergraduates reminded me of why I chose this path, how far I have come, and what is next.
Developing New Skills and Rediscovering Hidden Talents
People volunteer out of passion, but volunteering also requires time, energy, and dedication - often at the expense of personal downtime. This makes time management a skill you quickly develop as a volunteer.
Volunteering with the YPWG also provided valuable opportunities to collaborate and leverage each other’s strengths. Some of us had prior experience organising events, while others brought unique skills to the table. For example, one member was skilled in design and took charge of elevating our event marketing, while another, a natural emcee, stepped in when I had to withdraw due to illness. There was also a project management expert who made event planning seamless. Each person’s talents played a crucial role in YPWG’s success, and it was a reminder that, despite stereotypes, internal auditors are not all about risk assessments and compliance - we have creativity, flexibility, and much more to offer!
Challenges and Rewards
Was it always smooth sailing? Absolutely not. Organising events and balancing commitments came with its fair share of challenges. But as the musical Wicked aptly puts it, “Some things I cannot change, but till I try I’ll never know.” I am glad I tried. The “heart work” we put into giving back to the profession was worth every effort.
Final Thoughts
Not all heroes wear capes, and volunteers certainly belong in that category. Volunteering with the YPWG has been a wickedly rewarding journey of growth, connection, and discovery. It was not always easy, but it was immensely rewarding.
So, are you ready to embrace the challenge and dive into something you are passionate about? The rewards could be far more wicked than you imagine!
Olivia Loke is responsible for the Internal Audit function across the Asia Pacific region at Colliers International. She is also the former Chairperson of the IIA Singapore Young Professionals Working Group.
