Ananya Agarwal

I am running for Play Team Chair because I believe we can build a more organised, confident, and connected volunteering community while continuing to deliver exceptional care and engagement for every child we support.

Since my first year at university, I have been committed to Play Team and I now serve as a Play Team Leader. Alongside this, I have worked with children across hospitals, mainstream schools, and special needs settings. These experiences have shaped my leadership style: adaptable, empathetic, calm under pressure, and deeply committed to inclusive practice. I understand how to tailor activities to individual needs, communicate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and ensure that every child feels seen, safe, and valued.

As Chair, I will prioritise organisation, clarity, and community. I will streamline scheduling and communication so every shift is reliably covered and expectations are clear. I aim to make full use of our WhatsApp group chat, transforming it into an approachable and supportive space where volunteers feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and seeking advice at any time.

To recognise dedication and motivate our team, I will introduce a Volunteer of the Month initiative to celebrate commitment and impact. I will also actively encourage attendance by fostering a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where every volunteer feels appreciated and part of a cohesive team.

My vision is a Play Team that is structured, encouraging, and empowering — where volunteers thrive and children benefit from consistent, high-quality engagement. Strong leadership creates strong teams — and strong teams create meaningful impact.