Thank you Coventry Games Ambassadors!
As we commemorate the first anniversary of the Commonwealth Games 2022, we look back on the invaluable contributions of the dedicated Games Ambassador volunteers who helped make the event a success for the region.
One year ago, Coventry once again welcomed the world to the city with the support of local volunteers who selflessly offered their time and efforts helping to ensure a positive experience for visitors and spectators to Coventry.
Following a thorough application, selection and training process it all began on 21st July 2022 in Coventry supporting the Queen’s Baton Relay route followed by welcoming and supporting visitors and spectators as part of the city centre Festival Site for the Opening Ceremony on 28th July, plus Rugby 7’s, Judo and Wrestling at the stadium and rounding off with the closing ceremony screening on 8th August.
Games Ambassadors across the region made a tremendous impact and the profound role played by the volunteers, their passion and commitment to service continue to shine as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the boundless power of unity.
Lisa Barrett, an esteemed EnV Volunteer and City Host joined the Commonwealth Games Volunteers and said: “Coventry is my hometown and the buzz you feel seeing the crowds, and energy, is incredible – it’s like nothing else. I think it put the Midlands on the map again. It’s just so nice meeting and greeting the public and being that friendly face when they arrive or need showing where to go. It was a brilliant time, one of those big lifetime events.”
New volunteers also signed up to specifically be part of the Commonwealth Games and enjoyed their experience so much they continue their contributions to the community. Michel Abbott has joined EnV to become a City Host in Coventry following his time at CWG and has since gone onto receive extra volunteer training to become a Digital Champion and GoCV Champion:
Michel said: ‘I volunteered at the Commonwealth Games and I enjoyed the experience so much I got the “bug” to do more. Becoming an EnV Volunteer is perfect as there are opportunities to be involved in so many different events and varying roles – you can choose which ones and when to suit your circumstances. Some events I have volunteered at over the last year include the Coventry Transport Museum, Reel Store, Herbert Art Gallery with Dippy, The Albany Theatre, Luminate at Coombe Abbey, Godiva Festival & Harry Styles at CBS Arena (tickets included!).
Everyone at EnV is supportive and friendly making volunteering fun and rewarding, and I recommend anyone to consider joining the Team – you will not be disappointed’
The Commonwealth Games in total had around 13,000 volunteers and the Coventry team contributed to 1921 volunteer hours over the 19 days.
David Boughey, Managing Director of EnV Said: “We worked hard with the Games Organising Committee, Birmingham City Council and Coventry City Council to deliver interactive volunteer training and provide an engaging local volunteer and visitor experience with continued legacy opportunities. It was special to experience that Host City atmosphere across the Midlands for the Birmingham2022 Commonwealth Games, made extra special by the inspiring, informative, and engaging Games Ambassador volunteers.”
Councillor Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader at Coventry City Council, added: “Having the Games Ambassadors in the city during last year’s Commonwealth Games was fantastic.
They were friendly faces for both residents and visitors to approach if they needed help with their journey to Coventry, getting to the CBS Arena or exploring our Festival Site.”
EnV are recruiting City Host volunteers to support Coventry’s Art, Music, Sports and Heritage events. If you want to join like-minded people, grow your social circle, have fun at the city’s most popular events and gain new skills then why not apply? Anyone who is 18 years of age or over can apply on-line today at www.env.uk.com/cityhosts
Birmingham Festival 23 will be held in Birmingham from Friday 28 July – Sunday 6 August to mark the one year anniversary of the Commonwealth Games.
