A COVENTRY PA who volunteered at the Commonwealth Games enjoyed the experience so much she volunteered at the International Children’s Games in Coventry.
Lisa Barrett, from Vistry Group, worked eight shifts in Coventry during the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with other hardworking volunteers to point sports stars and crowds to key destination points and ensure the smooth running of events.
Lisa, from Bulkington, 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 puts 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 has just been a brilliant time, one of those big lifetime events.”
There were crowds of more than 30,000 attending rugby sevens matches alone and Lisa’s team would support with wayfinding, answering questions, logistics and general safety.
Lisa has always volunteered in various roles and loved contributing to the community.
She was a Coventry volunteer at the London Olympics 2012 and, after Coventry Ambassadors was formed, travelled to Japan to help train helpers for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
She was also a team leader during Coventry’s UK City of Culture programme last year.
“Ten years ago, I would never have dreamt I would have done the things I have through volunteering.
“The people and places I’ve seen have just been unbelievable and I would recommend it to anyone who can spare the time.”
