This year, BoxWise has been lucky enough to have Josh Leong on board as a volunteer intern.
Josh joined the team in January 2024, working closely with Communications and Fundraising Manager Tori on a variety of tasks from designing digital assets to finetuning our feedback forms.
Josh was a real asset to the team, with his data skills particularly valued as we expanded our evaluation processes across the year Josh also attended several BoxWise events, including the 2024 Dallaglio RugbyWorks Awards and the launch of the partnership with Queensberry at Islington Boxing Club.
Josh said of his time with BoxWise:
Taking a gap year before starting university, I initially felt disoriented and left behind in my personal development. However, my experience with BoxWise, which began in January, provided me with a profound sense of purpose and belonging. Despite having limited prior experience with boxing, I was intrigued by how the sport could serve as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and personal growth.
During my time with BoxWise, I gained invaluable skills that will benefit me in future employment. Working primarily with feedback data, I witnessed firsthand the positive impact of our sessions on the confidence, resilience, and motivation of the young participants. This experience has inspired me to pursue roles with philanthropic goals in mind, as I’ve seen how impactful such work can be.
Moreover, my communication skills have significantly improved through my role at BoxWise. The team's emphasis on effective communication has deeply influenced me. I’ve observed how clear and purposeful dialogue can lead to well-informed decisions and better outcomes. Engaging with a diverse range of individuals—from media representatives to donors and board members—at award events and media days has refined my ability to conduct meaningful and impactful conversations.
The most significant takeaway from my experience with BoxWise is the importance of working with a clear and meaningful purpose. The organization’s mission to empower and motivate young people provided a clear goal, allowing me to focus my efforts effectively and produce my best work. This experience has been immensely valuable for my professional growth, and I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in opportunities like BoxWise to gain purpose-driven experience.
Josh is now starting his undergraduate course at Imperial College London in Biomedical Engineering, so his time with BoxWise has come to an end. Everyone at BoxWise wishes Josh the best, and thanks him for all of his brilliant work for us this year.
