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Volunteer Voices

Volunteer Voices: What Reading and Writing Make Possible

Konima volunteers reflect on reading as escape, writing as expression, and why young people need both.

Konima Editorial Team · April 5, 2026 · 4 min read

Cover image for Volunteer Voices: What Reading and Writing Make Possible

Reading for me is an enjoyable and impactful experience. It exposes me to ideas, cultures, and experiences beyond my immediate environment, helping me grow intellectually and creatively.And writing gives me an opportunity to control a narrative, share my opinion and express thoughts I can’t easily talk about. In a nutshell, they are both forms of arts that motivate, educate and inspire me. ~ Archilyn Cole-Lewis

Writing is a powerful tool that allows me to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions in a way that transcends time and space. For me, writing is a means of communication, a way to convey messages, tell stories, or simply connect with others. It's a way to leave a mark, to make my presence known, and to share my perspective with the world. The significance of writing lies in its ability to inspire, educate, and influence. Through writing, one can share their experiences, insights, and expertise with others, leaving a lasting impact on their lives and that of their readers as well. For me, writing is also a form of self-expression, a way to process thoughts and emotions, and to reflect on my experiences. Whatever the purpose, writing is a powerful medium that can shape perceptions, challenge norms, and create new possibilities. By putting my thoughts into words, I'm able to share my unique voice with the world, and that's a truly remarkable thing. ~Emmanuel N.S Lansana

Hi! My name is Christiana Jeneba Gordia, for me reading isn't just a habit, it's an escape route from my life's daily trauma and it helps me forget all my worries and gives me strength to try again. Reading has also helped me explore new worlds, cultures, and perspectives.

These reflections shape how Konima thinks about literacy. Reading and writing are not only classroom skills. They are ways for young people to see further, speak more clearly, and understand themselves with more dignity.

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