Carina Chowdury – iACT Volunteer
How long have you been in Austin?
12 years
How long have you volunteered with iACT?
For 2 summers.
What made you want to volunteer with iACT?
I initially started looking for opportunities for my high schooler, but as I learned more about iACT, I realized it was also the right fit for me. I do some informal work supporting refugees, but this opportunity offered the chance to be truly hands-on. Being able to directly connect and contribute in a meaningful way has been both empowering and deeply fulfilling.
What do you enjoy most about working with iACT?
What I enjoyed most was the genuine human connection – hearing stories, sharing experiences, and working side by side with people who are building hope and opportunity despite incredible challenges. iACT creates a space where everyone’s voice matters, and I love seeing how small, intentional actions can ripple into meaningful change. It’s inspiring to be part of a community that leads with dignity, compassion, and respect.
The mentoring program has been the most rewarding part for me. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see growth and confidence develop over time, and to know that even small pieces of guidance can make a real difference. Those one-on-one connections have been inspiring and have reminded me how much we can learn from each other.
What’s the most challenging thing about working with iACT that you experienced?
A challenging part was learning to navigate the differences in backgrounds, experiences, and sometimes even communication styles. It pushed me to listen more deeply, be patient, and adapt my approach so that I could truly connect. While it wasn’t always easy, it became a valuable learning experience for me. One more challenging aspect has been working within the many protocols that need to be maintained. I completely understand that they’re essential for iACT to be effective and consistent as an organization, but at times they can feel a bit restricting. That said, it’s taught me to be more flexible within structure and to find creative ways to connect and make an impact while still honoring those guidelines.
Why would you encourage others to perform similar volunteer work with iACT?
I would encourage others to volunteer with iACT because it’s an opportunity to make a real, tangible difference while also gaining a deeper understanding of resilience, dignity, and community. The work is meaningful, the connections are genuine, and you end up learning just as much as you give. It’s a chance to step outside your own world, contribute to something bigger, and see firsthand the impact that compassion paired with action can create.