Ian Williams’ Post

Not a work-related post but, some may know, in my spare time I volunteer for St John ambulance. I started my journey as a cadet and worked up and up. 2024 has been a cracker of a year! A whirlwind of growth, challenges, and achievements. Learnt so many transferable skills and put my skills to the test. Back in December 2023, I was appointed as Unit Manager for Bolton Cadet Unit.  A role full of challenges, skills but also huge rewards! Here’s what we as a team achieved, led by myself: -Built a Youth Team of 9 volunteers (Youth Leaders & Helpers). -Developed leadership with 3 Cadet Corporals, 2 Cadet Sergeants, and a Lead Cadet! -Supported cadets to shine, including 16 Operational First Aiders and many working towards their Grand Prior Award. -One of my Youth Leaders even stepped up to be an interim Unit Manager (coached by yours truly)! - Even one of my cadets went to see HRH Princess Anne at the Young Achievers reception. I've built connections in the community with local MPs and the local Mayor to name some. We’ve strengthened our unit together, and boy, has it paid off. Fast forward to November, I attended the County Priory Awards thinking I’d just pick up my 10-Year Service Award and Medal. But SURPRISE! My unit was awarded Pride of St John – Cadet Unit of the Year! 🎉(across Greater Manchester (Yes, I did let out the loudest “YEAH” in the room.) This award means the world. The award reflects the incredible growth, leadership, and opportunities we’ve created together as a unit. To say I’m proud is an understatement—seeing our hard work recognised like this is beyond rewarding. It’s a testament to our cadets’ growth, the opportunities we’ve created, and the leadership we’ve built together by the skills I have learnt and developed as the unit manager. What a moment! It’s been a whirlwind, a challenge, and—most importantly—a privilege. Hard work? Yes. Worth it? 1000%! Here's to continuing this journey for many more years to come. 💚 Here’s to many more years of volunteering, growth, and shouting “YEAH” at well-deserved surprises! #StJohnAmbulance #Volunteering