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I come from a Muslim background, where community is integral to our values, and I’ve always loved fundraising and had a passion for helping people. At only 16 years old, I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be a Member Pioneer so I can live out my values in my job.

I came across the role by chance. I was looking for a job in my local Co-op when I saw a flyer that read ‘Can you bring people together in your community?’ I thought – ‘I think I can!’ And as the role is only 4 hours a week, I can do it flexibly around my studies.

Supporting my community and inspiring my peers

I was delighted to be offered the role, and in my first 6 months I’ve been given so many opportunities to work on local community projects with people I know. My day-to-day role has me working closely with our Local Community Fund causes. I get to see first-hand the impact the fund has on the lives of local people.

In June I took part in our Co-op Academy Virtual Work Experienced programme. There are many young people who aren’t aware of all their options, and I was proud to bring my passion for working in the community to inspire others to become a Member Pioneer. It’s amazing to be given these types of opportunities to work with other young people and it’s one of the many reasons I love my role.

Endless possibilities

Being part of a member run organisation is so rewarding and as a member, I help decide which community causes Co-op supports. It means I can choose where to give back, and that co-operative way of doing things is what I love about Co-op. Being a Member Pioneer has opened up so many possibilities for me, and I’m excited for what’s still to come.

Faiza Zakaria

Member Pioneer