On Volunteer Week (19-23 May) ACAP celebrates students like Manish Shah, who are meaningfully contributing to the community through volunteering.
In 2025, National Volunteer Week has adopted ‘Connecting Communities’ as its theme, and for ACAP University College student Manish that couldn’t resonate more deeply.
Hailing from Nepal, Manish is studying a Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at ACAP Sydney, where he has developed a profound appetite for social justice and environmental sustainability, and connected with a thriving community, through his many volunteer projects.
A member of the A-Team on campus, which supports community engagement initiatives, Manish practices what he preaches – giving his time to Clean Up Australia, the Rotary Club of Sydney on ANZAC Day and Nepal National Water and Weather Week to name a few.
He said a recent role as Volunteer Coordinator for the Ocean Lovers Festival in Bondi exemplifies his commitment to community service.
“I managed a team of 50 volunteers to promote environmental sustainability through initiatives such as beach clean-ups, educational workshops, and the Seabirds to Seascapes Trail,” Manish said.
"Our efforts removed between 100–200 kg of litter and engaged the community in ocean conservation activities aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals."
Currently, Manish is volunteering for Vivid Sydney where he was appointed a volunteer team leader, and in recognition of his tireless volunteer output, he was selected for 2025 –26 International Student Leadership and Ambassador Program at the City of Sydney.
ACAP is passionate about encouraging students to give back by using their developing skillsets in human services, coaching or law to help others and the globe. Manish said for him, volunteering is a way to make a difference for causes he is passionate about.
“My motivation comes from a deep passion for environmental and social justice,” he said. “Volunteering allows me to take action on urgent issues such as climate change and animal welfare. It’s a way to express my values and contribute meaningfully to causes I care about. I believe even small efforts can create powerful ripple effects.”
Manish said volunteering also offers a way for him to connect with the broader Australian community as an international student, by sharing specialised knowledge from his studies in a way that creates meaningful change.
“What I love most about volunteering is the sense of inner fulfillment it brings,” Manish said.
“Whether I’m cleaning beaches or helping run large-scale public events like Vivid, I find joy in connecting with people and making a difference. These experiences continually inspire me to grow, personally and professionally, as a future social worker.”
Committed to caring
Manish’s impressive volunteer portfolio shows how ACAP students apply use their education to make a real difference in the communities they study in.
As National Volunteer Week celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together, ACAP University College remains committed to fostering a culture of service by preparing graduates who are not only qualified professionals but also engaged citizens who strengthen their communities.
On campus, ACAP gives back to the community through the ACAP Clinic where under supervision from experienced practitioners, students provide free mental health services to members of the public who might otherwise face barriers to accessing support. Many of the overseeing practitioners are also volunteers, dedicating their time to supporting budding human services workers, and the most vulnerable members of our communities.
Manish said volunteering is something everyone should get involved in, in whichever way they can.
“I highly recommend volunteering,” he said.
“It empowers you to create positive change, build valuable skills, and meet inspiring individuals. Every opportunity has enriched my sense of purpose. Volunteering shows that every action no matter how small truly counts."
Interested in a career that cares? Explore at: ACAP | Accredited Social Work Courses