Meet Alice Konig, our Community Ambassador, based in St Andrews, Scotland.
1) How did you first come across or get involved with Book Aid International? I first heard of Book Aid International through a reverse book token I was given one Christmas. Then, when I wanted to do some volunteering and was trying to think of areas where I have some expertise (I’m a university lecturer, so education and books are my thing) I thought of Book Aid International. I looked up the website and was really impressed with what I read, and they had just advertised for the Community Ambassador role – so I applied!
2) What made you decide to become a Community Ambassador? Firstly, I really believe in the importance of what Book Aid International does. Books, literacy and education are so key to aid and development, and the work of BAI not only changes lives – it has the power to change the future. The Community Ambassador role seemed like a very exciting volunteering opportunity.
3) How have you been raising funds/profile for Book Aid International in your local area? Through many different ways! I’ve attended school assemblies to talk about World Book Day and the importance of books in Africa, persuaded St Andrews University to hold an annual library fines amnesty in aid of Book Aid International and arranged a literary quiz in my local café to help raise the profile and raise more money too!
4) What would your advice be to other supporters who are considering becoming ambassadors themselves? Do it! It’s great fun. The role is a very flexible one, so you can tailor it to suit your other commitments and interests. You get to meet very interesting people and talk about such interesting things! And the staff at Book Aid International London office are amazingly lovely and helpful, and really make you feel part of the team.
