Everyone loves a full-circle moment, and Megan’s story at Sparkle is a wonderful example of how something can affect someone so profoundly that it becomes woven into the tapestry of who they are and shapes the person they grow into. Meg’s journey through Sparkle perfectly demonstrates how deeply someone can feel the impact of a charity’s work, and how that can inspire them to make that same difference for the next generation of children and families.
With that, it’s a pleasure and a privilege for us to share Megan’s story…
Serennu Children’s Centre has been part of Meg’s life for as long as she can remember. Growing up, Meg regularly attended the centre for physiotherapy and occupational therapy appointments following brain surgery as a baby, which resulted in acquired hemiplegia and weakness on the left side of her body. Throughout her childhood, Serennu became a place filled with support, care and familiar faces.
When the time came to complete volunteer hours for her Welsh Baccalaureate Community Challenge, the choice for Meg was easy, and she knew exactly where she wanted to donate her time.
‘I wanted the opportunity to give back to a centre that had supported me so much throughout my childhood’. Megan said.
What began as volunteer hours quickly became something much bigger, something that would reflect Megan’s unwavering commitment to Sparkle and her faith in its services.
‘I enjoyed the work so much that I stayed for seven years!’
Going far beyond simply ticking a box for a college course, Megan felt the importance of the work she did at Sparkle, which compelled her to continue giving her time and kindness.
Since 2019, she has been a valued part of the MediCinema team at Serennu Children’s Centre, helping create welcoming and inclusive cinema experiences for children and young people with disabilities and their families.
Over the years, Megan has welcomed families, supported MediCinema screenings and helped create an environment where children and young people can feel comfortable, safe and excited to enjoy experiences together.
Speaking with Megan, it’s clear that volunteering became much more than simply giving back.
‘This volunteer role was my first job, and it has played a huge part in helping me grow in confidence and develop valuable skills. I have also built lasting friendships with the people I work alongside’, she said.
One of the things Megan enjoyed most was getting to know the families attending MediCinema and witnessing the children’s excitement first-hand.
‘One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing the excitement of the children attending the MediCinema and getting to know so many wonderful families.’
When speaking with Megan ahead of writing this article, we learned that some moments have stayed with her more than others. She shared a particularly touching interaction with a parent:
‘One Saturday, one of the parents was particularly stressed because their child was very distressed and agitated. I made the parent a hot drink and offered to play with the child so the parent could have a moment to relax and have some time for herself.’
Megan shared that, to her, it was a small gesture, but she later found out just how much it had meant when the parent gave feedback saying what a difference Megan’s actions that day made to her.
‘The experience taught me that even small acts of kindness and support can make a real difference to someone’s day,’ Megan said.
Another important reflection Megan shared from her time volunteering at Sparkle was the importance of representation. She firmly believes that representation matters and hopes young people with disabilities can see what is possible through her example.
‘I believe it is incredibly important for young people with disabilities to see disabled people in the workplace, as it provides positive role models for them.’
Now, after nearly seven years as part of the Sparkle family, Megan is preparing for an exciting new chapter, having secured a full-time role with an accountancy firm following the completion of her degree in Accountancy and Finance.
‘I am sad to be leaving the children’s centre, as it has been such an enjoyable part of my life, and although I feel naturally nervous about starting a new job, I am also excited for this new chapter to begin.’
When we asked what she would miss most, the answer was bittersweet:
‘Seeing the lovely families and the good friends I have made every week.’
While Megan will be hugely missed by the MediCinema team and families, everyone at Sparkle is incredibly proud of everything she has achieved. Not only has she worked hard at Sparkle alongside studying, but she has made a real impact, and she has helped shape the community we all know and feel so connected to.
Megan will always be a part of Sparkle. We would like to say a huge thank you to Megan for the kindness, care and support she has given to so many children and families over the last seven years. From helping create magical first cinema experiences to simply offering a hot drink and a listening ear when someone needed it most, Megan has made a lasting difference.
‘It has been a real privilege getting to know Meg over the years. Her journey, from being supported by Serennu as a child to giving back so selflessly over the last seven years, has been truly inspiring. We wish Megan all the very best for her exciting next chapter, we are all so proud of her, and she will always be part of our Sparkle MediCinema family.’ – Sara Filer, Operational Lead, Sparkle Leisure Services
The support Megan received as a child helped shape her journey, and over the last seven years, she has helped create those same moments of support and reassurance for others. As one chapter closes and another begins, we know this won’t be goodbye.
Congratulations, Megan. We wish you every success in this exciting next step.
If you’ve been moved or inspired by Megan’s story, you can find out more about volunteering with Sparkle here: Volunteer | Sparkle, helping special children shine