Volunteer Spotlight – September 2025 – Joseph Boamah

Joseph has been a volunteer with us since October 2024 and balances his volunteering with studying for a MSc in diabetes at the University of Chester.

With a medical background, having trained as a Sonographer, it was through his work that Joseph became interested in diabetes research.

He also has a personal connection to the cause with family members living with diabetes and would like to help more people to know their risk of type 2 diabetes earlier. Joseph has found out that he is at higher risk due to his family history.

Motivations for getting involved

Joseph’s motivation for volunteering stems from his belief that “the greatest measure of who we are is what we love and how we spend our time.” For him, that means giving time to supporting others, adding value to their lives, and having a sense of purpose.

Encouraged by a friend already volunteering with us, Joseph applied to be a volunteer and hasn’t looked back since, sharing information and raising awareness in his community.

Learning through volunteering

Despite his medical training, Joseph is quick to say that volunteering at Diabetes UK has taught him new and unexpected things.

He explains that a large part of this has been the induction and training he has received, led by our Engaging Communities Officer in the North of England, Vanessa. Joseph has also learned from attending online workshops and community outreach events.

“It’s been brilliant. Vanessa has helped me to be more human when it comes to diabetes,” he shares. 

“I’ve learned how to speak to people, understand them, and support them - even when conversations are difficult.”

Making a difference as an Impact Volunteer

Joseph is an Impact Volunteer with us. This is a flexible role that involves carrying out small actions that make a big difference to people affected by diabetes.

As an Impact Volunteer, Joseph uses social media to amplify Diabetes UK’s messages, sharing research updates, awareness campaigns, and educational content. During Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Week, he created posts on LinkedIn, Instagram and his WhatsApp status to share our videos and signpost to our website for more information.

One of the highlights of his volunteering has come from sharing the Know Your Risk tool. The response was overwhelming, with people asking questions and expressing surprise that the free tool exists. “It was fulfilling to know I was helping people understand something that could change their lives,” he says.

Reflecting on the tool a bit more, Joseph acknowledges that he wasn’t aware about it before becoming a volunteer. He wants to help others to know about it especially if they have a family background of diabetes.

“One thing I love about the tool is when you know your risk, it tells you what you need to know and do next.”

Looking ahead

Joseph is particularly passionate about supporting people diagnosed with pre-diabetes. When he has volunteered at events in the community, he’s noticed a gap in information and guidance and is advocating for more structured support. “Having pre-diabetes doesn’t mean you’ll definitely develop type 2 diabetes,” he explains. “With the right help, it can be prevented.”

Joseph plans to continue both as an Impact Volunteer and as a volunteer in his local community. He is keen to get involved with our community groups and hopes to contribute to our research efforts in the future.

When asked what he would say to others thinking of volunteering, he says “we spend so much time on social media now - why not use it to help someone else? Micro-volunteering is one of the most fulfilling things you can do.”

If Joseph’s story has inspired you to get involved, take a look at our at our volunteering opportunities.