RYTHM Foundation recently marked the completion of its Volunteer Development Programme Cohort 2 in Malaysia on 24 January, celebrating the commitment, growth, and contributions of youth volunteers who participated in the programme from April to December 2025.
The VDP is our flagship initiative aimed at nurturing youth volunteerism and strengthening community engagement. Through a structured mentor-mentee framework, the programme equips young volunteers with the skills, values, and confidence to voice their perspectives, contribute meaningfully to society, and address societal challenges.
Driving Community Impact Across Malaysia
Thirty volunteers were formally recognised as part of this cohort. To complete the programme, participants were required to attend three training sessions, contribute at least 12 volunteer hours, participate in three activities after each training session, and complete one community group project. Eight participants fulfilled these core requirements.
Twenty-one participants — four mentors and 17 mentees — attended the closing event where certificates and awards were presented.
The latest batch of volunteers demonstrated a high level of commitment, consistency, and maturity, actively engaging in community-based initiatives with 62 organisations nationwide. Their volunteerism spanned diverse focus areas, including education, environmental action, youth empowerment, animal welfare, and well-being.
Collaborating with NGOs, universities, social enterprises, and government agencies, the cohort turned their commitment into meaningful action, logging an impressive 1,744.75 volunteer hours.
Recognising Volunteer Achievements
The event also served as a platform to recognise the teams and individuals who demonstrated exceptional dedication throughout their VDP journey.
Eight volunteers were honoured with the ‘Outstanding Performance Award’ for completing all the programme requirements, including participation in all training sessions, post-training engagements, and the implementation of community projects.
They are Abdul Hadi Kareeem Abdul Samat, Aruna Arumugam, Dayanita Nirmal, Kalaivani Pannir Selwon, Norfarahin Abu Hasan, Pavitran Karnan, Rajes Rao Thrumoorthy, and Yaashrey Kathiresvaran.
Five volunteers received the ‘Extra Mile Award’ for surpassing the required 12 volunteer hours, with some contributing more than 100 hours of service. They are Aruna Arumugam, Darlvina Vijaya Kumar, Norfarahin, Pavitran, and Yaashrey.
In addition, one group received the ‘Best Group Award’ for independently implementing a community project that had a meaningful impact on children’s care home settings. The group, led by mentor Tharun Raghavan Suresh, comprised Khirthika Ramesh, Rajes, and Janani Vharma Thamil Chelvan.
The event also featured an insightful sharing session that offered personal perspectives from mentors and mentees, as they reflected on their experiences, challenges, and growth throughout the programme.
Volunteer Reflections
Reflecting on her journey, volunteer Maizato Akuma shared that the programme marked a turning point in her personal growth.
“Before joining the VDP, I was not deeply involved in volunteering. Through the training sessions, I gained confidence and developed leadership skills that I never realised I could acquire through volunteering. The programme inspired me to become more active and to continue contributing through volunteer work in the future,” she said.
Maizato, an indigenous Orang Asli, also expressed a desire to give back to her community. “I hope to create opportunities that support my community and build a system that encourages more people to connect, contribute, and make a positive impact together.”
Rajes recalled one of the most impactful moments of his VDP experience: participating in a flood relief mission in Indonesia.
“Helping communities affected by the disaster and working alongside volunteers from different backgrounds showed me the real impact of volunteerism beyond borders,” he shared.
The Deputy Head of RYTHM Foundation, Shreevidya Anandan, emphasised that the programme’s conclusion marked the beginning of a continued journey of service. “As we close this chapter today, it is essential to remember that this is not an ending.
“I hope all volunteers will carry forward the insights gained through this programme into their future endeavours — whether in their studies, workplaces, or communities,” she said.
