Priscilla Amankwah
Brixton Windmill Cafe Volunteer
Tell us a bit about yourself – what do you do when you’re not volunteering?
Hello, I’m Priscilla. I am born and raised in Brixton and have studied BA Hons Childhood Studies at the University of Greenwich. Before the pandemic I worked in different childcare sectors.
What sort of volunteering work do you do with FoWG?
I volunteer at the Brixton Windmill Cafe, serving and selling delicious homemade treats, jams, Brixton windmill flour and refreshments.
How did you get into volunteering with FoWG?
One day I was walking by Brixton Windmill and stopped to inquire about volunteering. I talked to Mags, who works there, and filled in an online application form as I was very interested in the opportunities that are on offer. I believed it would be a good experience for me during the pandemic and keep me engaged with the wider community.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering?
I love interacting and welcoming parents and children visiting the cafe with a warm smile. Seeing the excitement on people’s faces discovering Brixton Windmill for the first time is also nice. It’s rewarding to serve in this community.
What is the one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to volunteer?
It’s a wonderful experience and you will learn new things and meet amazing people along the way. Join the volunteers to be a part of a great team of people making a difference in the local area.
How do you feel you have benefited from volunteering with FoWG?
It’s made me engage with people in a positive way and be helpful. Also, it is a good way to give back to the community.
Can you say a bit about how Covid-19 has affected you, and your hopes for future work with FoWG?
During Covid-19, I’ve learned to adapt to change, accept uncertainty and appreciate the simple things in life. I believe FoWG has great potential, with its engagement with the community. Having a school-education programme that is creative, helpful and interactive is great! The Brixton Windmill centre will make it possible for others to hold events, and special occasions such as birthday parties and weddings in the future. I believe it will continue to rebuild and shape the community in a positive way.
Finally, tell us a surprising fact about the windmill that people may not know.
Well, a surprising fact I have come across is how the operators of the Brixton Windmill, the Ashby family, were connected through family ties to various other Ashbys working as millers in Kent and Surrey. It’s interesting to know how milling was developed through family generations.
