An interview with Sophia, a super volunteer software developer

A Good Thing has an amazing network of volunteers and we’re super excited to announce we’ve recently welcomed two new volunteer software developers! They’ve been busy using their fantastic skills to help us develop and update our web app, without their support we wouldn’t be able to implement our wish list of app enhancements so rapidly. We’re delighted to introduce Sophia who joined the team after being spotted by Richard, he thought her role as Sustainable Operations lead at Credera made her the perfect fit!

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

My name is Sophia and I am an engineer at Credera UK. Previously I worked at a tax professional body as a Digital Content Manager before taking the plunge and attending a 3-month intensive coding BootCamp.

Why did you choose to volunteer with A Good Thing?

I was approached by Richard to volunteer with A Good Thing at a time when I was looking to give a little back and expand my learning in new technologies. He had seen that I was interested in Sustainability through my work as Sustainable Operations lead at Credera and thought it would be a nice fit. And I agreed! It’s a great opportunity to contribute to society in a positive way, learn new skills and meet some wonderful people.

What’s your role as part of the volunteering programme?

I am working with Richard as a member of a small dev team on A Good Thing’s website and admin portal. The role includes adding new features or extending existing ones, resolving issues that may pop up and responding to feedback from users.

What do you hope to learn from your volunteering experience?

As a volunteer, I hope to learn more about the circular economy, the challenges small businesses face in their sustainability journeys, and how we can work together to achieve positive societal changes. From a development point of view, I’m excited to be trying my hand at new technologies and continuing my journey as an developer.

Tell us about a success you’ve had in the role so far:

So far I’ve mostly been getting used to working with Svelte (which I had not used before joining the team) and figuring out where I can be of most use. But this is only the beginning! I hope to significantly contribute to the success of the website and continue working with the amazing team at A Good Thing!

Has Sophia inspired you to join our volunteering programme? Do you have a couple of spare hours a week to help us develop our web app?