The Value of Serving
Lesson 02: Fulfilment Comes From Doing Something Bigger than Yourself.
In 2017, I was at an exciting point in my career, working for one of the world’s major telecom companies. As a young graduate trainee, I had access to incredible opportunities to learn, grow, and network with some of the brightest minds in the industry. The job was challenging, stimulating, and came with all the perks a young professional could hope for.
And yet, even with all of this, I felt a subtle void. I loved my work, but deep down, I yearned to be part of something that felt bigger than myself. That’s when a colleague introduced me to the 40 Days Over 40 Smiles Foundation (4040).
4040 was running a volunteer program that sent young adults to schools in underserved communities to facilitate fun and educational sessions with children. I joined without hesitation. What I didn’t know then was that this decision would change my life.
Through volunteering with 4040, I experienced a level of fulfilment I hadn’t known before. The work was about more than delivering lessons; it was about connecting with others, making a difference, and being part of something that mattered deeply. About a year later, I made one of the boldest decisions of my life: I left my corporate job at Vodafone to join 4040 full-time as an Administrative Assistant.
That same year, I also began volunteering at my local church. Between these two spaces, I found myself immersed in service—and the joy it brought was unmatched. Over the past seven years, serving has given me a deeper sense of purpose, stretched my abilities, and enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined.
Over the years, I’ve moved through different volunteer roles at both 4040 and Watoto Church. While my time commitment to these entities has reduced due to other work responsibilities, the experiences gained through volunteering remain invaluable. It has not only provided a wealth of learning across many facets of service but has also introduced me to a wider network of like-minded people. Many of these connections have grown into friendships, mentorships, and even professional collaborations.
Serving doesn’t just benefit others—it grows you. It teaches empathy, builds resilience, and gives you a new lens to view the world. It reminds you that fulfilment comes not from chasing success, but from contributing to something that leaves a lasting impact.
By no means am I suggesting that volunteering is better than maintaining a 9-to-5 job or running a business full-time. I simply believe that our work and service should go beyond meeting our needs to serve something greater than ourselves. Being part of something bigger than yourself is transformative. It shifts your focus from what you can gain to what you can give. And in giving, you find an inner joy that no title, paycheck, or recognition can replicate.
If you’ve ever felt a similar void, perhaps it’s time to explore how you can serve. Look for causes or communities that resonate with your values. Volunteer at an organization, lend your skills to a friend’s project, or simply be present for someone in need. The scale doesn’t matter; what matters is your willingness to show up and be part of the change.
As I look back on my journey, I’m grateful for the moments I said yes to serving. Those moments didn’t just help others—they helped me grow into the person I am today.
So,
Where or whom will you say yes to serving today?
In case you missed Lesson 01, you can read it here
Ivan Kabandize