Javier Andrés and María Rodríguez are the delegates of Tantaka in the School of Sciences.
Javier Andrés is from Seville, 20 years old and is studying 3rd year of Biochemistry + International Science Program. María Rodríguez is from Oviedo, 21 years old, and is studying 4th year of Biochemistry + Science and Business Program. They are the delegates of Tantaka in our School.
FotoCedida
/Javier Andrés and María Rodríguez.
17 | 10 | 2024
What is Tantaka?
Tantaka is the University's solidarity time bank. From Tantaka, both regional and international volunteers are directed and activities that promote solidarity and sustainability are carried out.
What does it mean to be an ambassador of School?
As ambassadors, we bring the mission statement of Tantaka closer to students and employees of our School. We are in charge of disseminating Tantaka's events and courses and encouraging students to volunteer.
This is your second year, what calls you to represent your School?
We are called by the promote all these initiatives that Tantaka leads, which is nothing more than giving visibility to those people who need our time, company and affection. Being that link between the people of the School and these people who need us is something that really motivates oneself and encourages the students of our School to go out more of ourselves and give ourselves to others.
How can students, professionals and professors of School of Sciences collaborate?
All support is welcome. Both students and professionals can participate in volunteering, sessions, workshops and events organized by Tantaka.
How much time is needed to make volunteer activities?
It depends on project, but in general it does not require a lot of time and is flexible. Dedicating two hours a week is more than enough to generate a positive impact on the community. You can also participate in one-time events and campaigns such as the Christmas campaign.
In which subject projects can you collaborate?
You can collaborate in homes for the elderly, giving swimming lessons to disabled people or simply offering them company, giving school support, in food collections, supporting children in cancer treatment, collecting clothes for women in status of vulnerability, assisting in soup kitchens ... In addition, if you know of any status in which Tantaka can help your idea is more than welcome.
The volunteer activities is made in Navarra or also at international level?
Both. During the course the projects are at the local level, in Pamplona and surroundings. There are also projects, such as school support, which can be done online. In the summer there are international volunteer programs available in Africa, America and Asia.
Are the students at School getting involved?
In general there is quite good participation from the students of School. On the one hand, international volunteering is having a special interest among them. However, there are also several initiatives at the local level that are led by students every week.
What can staff bring to a person to participate in this project?
It depends on the experience staff of each one, but I would say that financial aid will help you to know and be more aware of the reality of the people who are next to you. We usually think that the only way to help is to offer money. In reality, people are sometimes more in need of companionship, of someone to listen to them and to share quality time with.
What qualities are necessary to do volunteer activities?
A desire to help, optimism and an open mind.
Is there training for volunteers?
Yes, there are several workshops in which the work to be done by the volunteer is explained. In fact, on October 24 there is an international volunteer activities session at Hexagon Building where all the requirements and what it consists of will be explained. I encourage all those interested in doing volunteer activities abroad to attend.
