HSBC Volunteers Inspire and Empower at Kisharon Langdon

Kisharon Langdon welcomed a team of HSBC volunteers for a corporate volunteering day last month. Running from 10am to 4pm, the day brought together the HSBC volunteers, members, and students for a programme focused on connection, learning, and shared experiences.

The visit began with a welcome and introduction led by Fundraising Director Emma Nagli, offering insight into Kisharon Langdon’s mission and the impact of its work supporting people with learning disabilities.

A key highlight of the day was speed-networking format session, where students asked tailored questions and explored workplace skills, career pathways and what to expect in professional environments. Volunteers drew on their own experience to share practical advice and help students build confidence as they consider future employment.

HSBC volunteer, Ben Berelowitz reflected on the experience:
“It was truly special to get to know the students and learn about their interests. Being able to spend time with them in a careers-focused setting allowed us to share our experiences while also learning from them. It’s something we’ll definitely take back into our roles. Sharing our experiences in a careers-focused setting was valuable and we learned a lot from them too. It’s something we’ll take back into our roles.”

He added: “Our customers are from all walks of life, and some may need additional support whether due to disability, age, health, or other circumstances. Spending time with Kisharon Langdon’s members helped us better understand different needs and how we can offer more inclusive support in our day jobs.”

The day continued with Kisharon Langdon’s popular ‘Shop, Cook & Eat’ session, where volunteers worked alongside members to prepare and enjoy a healthy meal. This collaborative activity supported independence, confidence-building, and life skills, while reinforcing the importance of learning together as equals.

“Being able to participate in the activities as equals – cooking and learning together makes a real difference,” Ben said.
Volunteers also took part in an interactive Makaton session, learning how signs and symbols support communication. Members greatly enjoyed the opportunity to practise their communication skills with new people, making the session both fun and meaningful.

One member, Ophir, shared:
“I loved meeting the HSBC people.”

The personal impact of the day was clear through individual experiences, including Tova, who used the opportunity to practise her verbal communication skills, highlighting the lasting personal value of these interactions.

Daniella Flowers, Volunteer Manager at Kisharon Langdon, emphasised the wider importance of corporate engagement:
“We are hugely grateful for HSBC’s support and the enthusiasm their team brought to the volunteering day. Corporate partnerships are vital to organisations like ours because they provide not only practical help, but also encouragement, visibility, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the community. Their support demonstrates the power of corporate volunteering in driving social impact, building stronger communities, and creating meaningful collaboration between businesses and charities.”