By Aminu Hashidu Danjuma

In a world where monetary compensation often takes center stage, the concept of working for free might seem counterintuitive. However, volunteering—offering your time, skills, and expertise without expecting financial gain—can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

During my undergraduate days, I delved into numerous free extracurricular activities. Among them, were my involvement in the student union and youth mobilization stands out. But it wasn’t just about participation; it was about impact. This mindset shift led me to explore further opportunities, including the YALI (Young African Leaders Initiative Network). Through YALI, I connected with remarkable individuals who became lifelong friends, partners, and mentors. Together, we built upon our shared vision of making the world a better place—a vision that transcended financial gain.

Volunteering isn’t solely about financial compensation; it’s about collective prosperity. When we work for free, we contribute to a larger purpose. Whether it’s supporting a community project, assisting a nonprofit organization, or mentoring aspiring professionals, our efforts ripple outward. By focusing on impact rather than remuneration, we create a positive cycle of growth and goodwill.

One of my earliest memories with Getwell Innovations involved a pregnant woman suffering from Rhesus incompatibility. She urgently needed immunoglobulin E injections for a safe delivery. Despite searching extensively at the Federal Medical Center (FMC), where I was interning, we couldn’t find the necessary medication. Surprisingly, a nearby neighborhood pharmacy had it in stock, albeit close to its expiration date. The pharmacy owner was willing to lower the price, but I ensured the woman received it promptly at the market rate. By ensuring she received the immunoglobulin E injections, her health and safety during childbirth were significantly assured. Rhesus incompatibility can lead to serious complications, but timely intervention mitigated those risks. For the Pharmacy owner, my

decision to pay the market rate for the medicine not only prevented the pharmacy owner from running at a loss but also established trust. He recognized this integrity and the willingness to do what was right. In return, he gave me a token and expressed interest in future collaboration. He even offered a commission for every purchase made through my referral. This was the foundation for my startup business where we are currently revolutionizing access to essential medicines by connecting patients to community pharmacies.

By working for free, we build trust with others. The pharmacy owner trusted my integrity, and our collaboration flourished. Moreover, volunteering enhances our skills. As we contribute our expertise, we refine our abilities and gain practical experience. Finally, volunteering fosters connections. Whether it’s networking with fellow volunteers, industry professionals, or community members, these relationships open doors and create opportunities.

In conclusion, working for free isn’t a loss; it’s an investment. It’s an investment in impact, collective prosperity, trust, skills, and connections. So, the next time you consider volunteering, remember that the true value lies beyond monetary compensation—it lies in the positive change you bring to the world.