Your Year of Volunteering
‘If there’s some part of you considering it, you probably won’t stop wondering ‘What if?’ if you don’t.’
Nearly a year after joining Powerhouse, 3 volunteers (a university student, a recent graduate and a retiree) reflect on what it means to give their time to a place built on curiosity, creativity and connection.
Rizqin, Mitch and Liz joined the same 2025 Powerhouse Volunteer intake at very different stages in their lives. What they found was a shared sense of purpose and a community that continues to shape how they see the world around them.
When did you start volunteering with Powerhouse?
Rizqin I started volunteering in about September 2025, close to the end of my second year of uni. It was a time when I wanted to get more involved in things outside of just studying.
Mitch Around September or October 2025, I had left a long-term job a couple of months before and was feeling a bit lost, looking to expand my horizons.
Liz I started volunteering in October 2025. I was recently retired and looking to be involved in something interesting and worthwhile.
What drew you to volunteer at Powerhouse?
R I’ve always loved museums and galleries, especially exhibitions where you can make something or be part of the experience. Powerhouse really stood out for that. I also liked how broad ‘applied sciences’ could be and I knew I’d learn more about my interests.
M I was looking for a positive outlet, something I would enjoy and feel productive doing, while also helping people. I also wanted to explore what paths I could pursue in the future.
L I wanted to be part of a place that offered learning, connection, science and creativity. I had attended Collection Conversations earlier in the year and felt really drawn to what Powerhouse offers.
What were your first few volunteer shifts at Powerhouse like?
R My early shifts at Castle Hill were quiet, mostly getting familiar with the Collection. There’s so much there that you see something new every time.
M My first shift was at Sydney Observatory for an event. I was definitely nervous, but everyone was very kind. The first few shifts were a whirlwind: exciting and really fulfilling.
L My first shifts as a volunteer at Castle Hill were enjoyable and enlightening. At every turn there was something new to discover and it was easy to start conversations with visitors.
What are some highlights of your experience as a volunteer at Powerhouse this year?
R I’ve worked across interactives, Collection Conversations and larger events, including Steamfest in Maitland and exhibition openings.
M I’ve mostly been involved in front-of-house and collections research. I worked on the Australian Flora and Fauna Project, which I really enjoyed, especially researching the unique aspects of each species.
L I’ve volunteered on the museum floor and also on research projects like the Flora and Fauna Project. Writing object significance statements has been especially interesting, as I’ve been learning about objects like shell currency and the ‘Juicy Salif’.
What have you learnt about the value of volunteering during your time at Powerhouse?
M I’ve learnt how my actions can have a positive impact on people. It’s given me a lot more confidence when interacting with and assisting others.
L I’ve learnt that even in retirement I can contribute in a way that sparks my curiosity and intellect and connects me with people in a meaningful way.
What excites you about the future of Powerhouse?
R I can’t wait for the Parramatta and Ultimo sites to open. I love large-scale interactive exhibitions and Parramatta will bring in a whole new audience.
M I’m excited for new opportunities: meeting new people and learning more as Powerhouse grows.
L I’m looking forward to continuing both research and visitor engagement, especially with new spaces and collections.
What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?
R If there’s some part of you considering it, you probably won’t stop wondering ‘What if?’ if you don’t.
M Give it a go. What have you got to lose? It can become one of the most enriching things you do.
L You’ll be welcomed and supported, learn about amazing objects and work with incredible people.
A year on, what began as a search for something new has become something more enduring: a way to stay connected with others and to contribute to a shared space of learning. Across different stages of life, Rizqin, Mitch and Liz have found that volunteering at Powerhouse is not just about what you give, but what you discover along the way.
Powerhouse Volunteers
Join the Powerhouse and collaborate with our Collection, program, studio and food teams.
Opportunity
Powerhouse opportunities span careers, volunteer projects, residencies, fellowships, design accelerators and research programs. We are always looking for new talent and great collaborations.
