A Journey Of Empathy And Growth

Anne

Finding Purpose Through Shared Experience

I first discovered Babes while searching for meaningful volunteer opportunities. Growing up in South Africa, I saw the power of a helping hand. My mother instilled in my sisters and me the importance of giving back, regardless of someone’s circumstances. That value is deeply woven into who I am today.

What drew me to Babes was its non-judgemental, compassionate approach to supporting pregnant teenagers. I admired the team’s commitment to personalised care, not just for the teens but also for their parents and partners, who are often thrown into the deep end. It made me realise that Babes is more than just an organisation; it is a lifeline.

My own experience with an unplanned pregnancy deepened that understanding. I know the fear and isolation these teens face in a way no textbook could teach. That personal journey, though painful, became my greatest strength in connecting with them.

The Transformative Power of Listening

Initially, I thought I would mainly provide practical guidance and resources. But I quickly discovered that emotional presence, truly listening without judgement in a space where confidentiality is assured, makes the biggest impact. These young women are not looking for quick fixes. They need someone who sees them as individuals, not as problems to solve.

Teen pregnancy cuts across all social and economic boundaries. One thing that surprised me is how universal their challenges are. These situations affect young women from all walks of life.

Since joining Babes in 2021 as a Helpliner, and now serving as Co-Lead, I have seen how patient, confidential support empowers these teens to find their voice. Babes invests in us with courses and workshops that help us navigate emotionally charged, high-stakes conversations. I also value being part of a close-knit, supportive team. There is always someone to turn to when you need guidance or reassurance.

Defining Moments

Some of the most rewarding moments are quiet ones, when a teenager opens up or begins making confident decisions for herself and her baby. A simple “thank you for helping me” can mean everything.

One of the hardest situations I faced was when a teen hid her pregnancy until she went into labour, with her parents just in the next room. It was heartbreaking. But it taught me the power of presence over pressure, to walk alongside someone and not dictate. That balance is delicate but essential.

Growth That Goes Both Ways

Volunteering with Babes has transformed me. Professionally, I have grown as a communicator with more empathy and I’m better able to support others through trauma. Personally, I have become more patient and self-aware. I have learnt to maintain healthy boundaries while staying compassionate — a balance crucial to avoiding emotional burnout.

It has also made me more attuned to the nuances of support: how to help without imposing. The teenagers I meet continue to be my greatest teachers. Every story leaves a mark.

A Call to Future Change-Makers

To anyone considering this path: volunteering is not about having spare time. It is about having heart, commitment and the courage to show up when it matters most. Your calm presence can be a lifeline. Your willingness to listen, without judgement, can be healing.

At Babes, you are not just giving your time. You are bridging critical gaps, offering personalised support that a stretched team may not always be able to deliver. My experience has shown how deeply volunteers enhance Babes’ ability to respond quickly and compassionately during moments that matter most.

This is more than a role. It is becoming part of a collective heartbeat that powers real change. Kindness, especially in the form of volunteering, costs nothing, but it can transform lives.

Thank you, Babes, for helping me turn personal pain into purpose. Together, we are proving that kindness changes lives, one conversation at a time.

Written by volunteer, Wendy Loh