Volunteer Spotlight: Michael Kumi Badu Fiifi – Why I Keep Showing Up

If someone had told me a year ago that volunteering would become such a big part of my life, I probably wouldn’t have believed it. But here I am. My name is Michael Kumi Badu Fiifi, I’m 24 years old, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that sometimes the best experiences come from the decisions you take with just your heart.

A little about me, I'm a graduate of the University of Ghana with a degree in Business Administration, majoring in Public Administration. Right now, I work full-time as the Operations Manager at Outside the Lines Foundation (OTL), and when I’m not busy with that, you’ll probably find me watching football, swimming, or just listening to music. Music keeps me sane. There’s a quote from the actor Wentworth Miller that always sticks with me: “I choose to have faith because, without that, I have nothing... it’s the only thing that’s keeping me going.” Honestly, that line dictates how I approach life these days.

How It All Started

My journey with OTL started pretty simply. Collins Addai, the Co-director of the foundation and a good friend of mine, told me about the work they were doing with kids and right away, I was interested. I’ve always had this soft spot for kids and the desire to influence them positively. So, when the opportunity came, I didn’t hesitate. Funnily enough, this was my first time volunteering with any organization.

Since October 2024, I’ve been with the kids every week, having conversations, teaching, and just spending time together. We’ve covered a lot, life lessons, fun discussions, and even organized an essay competition where we awarded the best students. Watching them put their thoughts on paper was incredible.

The Moments That Stay With You

If I had to pick one standout moment, it would be our end-of-term party last December. Seeing those kids laugh, dance, and just have fun, that’s something I’ll never forget. There’s something special about being able to put smiles on faces like that. It made me realize that sometimes, impact isn’t measured by how grand your actions are but by the little moments that mean the world to someone else.

I won’t lie, at the beginning, I was nervous. Meeting the kids for the first time, I kept wondering, “How are they going to receive me?” But surprisingly, everything flowed naturally. The connection was instant, and now, it feels less like volunteer work and more like hanging out with younger siblings every week.

Why I Keep Showing Up

Every session with the kids reminds me why I’m here. It’s the conversations, the laughter, and the trust we’ve built. I genuinely believe the time we spend together just talking, learning, and growing has a huge impact. And to be honest, they inspire me way more than they probably realize. Their curiosity, their dreams, it pushes me to be better and to show up for them every single time.

On a personal level, being around the kids has helped me grow too. My public speaking skills have improved, and I’ve become better at connecting with people. If I had to sum up this experience in one word, it would be “educative” for both the kids and myself.

I’ve really enjoyed organizing programs and activities for them. But if you ask me for my favorite memory, it’s still that end-of-year party. The joy on their faces that day that’s the kind of thing that sticks with you.

Balancing It All

Balancing my full-time role at OTL and my internship hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to prioritize what matters. I also make sure there’s time for family because, at the end of the day, that balance is what keeps me grounded.

If there’s anyone out there considering volunteering, I’d say just do it. You honestly won’t regret it. There’s something about giving your time and energy to something bigger than yourself that changes you, in the best way possible.

As for me, I’m looking forward to the future. One of my personal goals is to study Law someday. It’s a big dream, but who knows? If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that anything is possible when you stay committed.

Final Thoughts

Volunteering with OTL has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s fun, it’s challenging, and it’s made me see the world a little differently. If you’re reading this and wondering how to get involved reach out to us on any of our social media platforms. Trust me, there’s always room for more people willing to make a difference.

For me, it all comes back to that quote faith keeps me going. And every week, when I show up for these kids, I’m reminded of why I started and why I’ll keep going!

Want to join us? Follow Outside the Lines Foundation on all our social media platforms and let’s create impact together.