At iACT, we have great appreciation for the wonderful volunteers who make our service work possible! In this Volunteer Spotlight, Omar Vayani, who volunteers with iACT’s Refugee Program as a youth mentor, tells us a little more about himself.

Q: Where are you from? How long have you been in Austin?

A: I am from the DFW area, specifically Keller, TX. I have been in Austin for the last three years as a student at the University of Texas at Austin.

How long have you volunteered with iACT?

I have been volunteering with iACT since January 2018.

What made you want to volunteer with iACT?

Before getting involved with iACT, I was interested in doing some sort of volunteering with the refugee community of Austin. Through my research, I came across iACT and found that it had one of the most established programs in terms of refugee work.

What do you enjoy the most about working with iACT?

What I love most about volunteering with iACT is how involved everyone is in accomplishing a goal. If I ever need help with anything, iACT is just an email away. They really make sure that you are supported in the goals you have for your volunteer experience.

What’s the most challenging thing about working with iACT that you experienced?

The most challenging thing, for me, has been striking a balance between friend and teacher with my mentee. I really enjoy connecting with him and having a good time during our sessions. But I also realize that my purpose in his life is to be someone who watches out for him in terms of his studies.

What’s the most rewarding thing about working with iACT that you experienced?

The most rewarding thing I have experienced is getting to learn from the experience of those who I mentor. Learning about my mentee and his family’s journey to the United States has broadened my perspective of the world and has allowed me to be more aware of the diversity within the borders I call home.

Why would you encourage others to perform similar volunteer work with iACT?

I would encourage everyone to get involved with iACT. They have so many amazing programs that benefit the Austin area. Whether it’s refugee work or something else, iACT has something for everyone.

Thanks so much for sharing your story with us, Omar! If you’re an iACT volunteer who wants to share your story, or if you’re interested in finding volunteer opportunities with iACT, contact Maggie Wagner at mwagner@interfaithtexas.org