Every act of volunteering carries a ripple effect, one that extends far beyond the individual, touching lives in unexpected and profound ways. We spoke with four dedicated volunteers who support Gift of Life, each bringing their own background, skills, and passion to the cause.
For Elena Zubova, a lawyer with a strong interest in children’s rights, volunteering was a natural step. Having supported the sister charity Podari Zhizn, she continued her journey after moving to London. “Children are our future, and I want to be part of building and supporting it,” she says. Her contributions range from donations to offering her time and expertise.
For Ekaterina Grineva, working nearly a decade in a Big Four consultancy has shown how impactful corporate support can be. She explains, “Volunteering helps people understand their responsibility to society. Even those in corporate roles, not just doctors or philanthropists, can use their skills to make a real difference.” She has supported Gift of Life for several years by helping to develop informational materials to promote volunteer fundraising, as well as contributing to the charity’s professional development and educational programme for local cancer specialists. “The mission of the charity resonates with me, and it feels rewarding to know that my work can help someone.
Elena Ognivtseva, a sales manager at a global financial services sales organisation, said that volunteering and social initiatives have changed her perspective in many profound ways, “It’s a reminder that we take so many things for granted, and it’s at times easy to lose sight of how lucky and fortunate we actually are. It has sharpened my awareness of the world beyond my immediate circle.”
When speaking about why she supports Gift of Life, Elena shares: “I find it heartbreaking and fundamentally unjust that a child, only just beginning to discover the world, should have to face such an immense struggle so early in life. To me, Gift of Life is in the business of restoring that fairness, brick by brick, rebuilding the foundations of a future that illness has tried to take away. My role may be just one brick in that wall, but together those bricks form something far greater: a structure of hope, resilience, and second chances.”
Zinaida Berezovskaya, an immigration advisor, brings her skills and energy to a wide range of Gift of Life initiatives. She has supported the charity at New Year’s Galas, poetry evenings, book presentations, and even behind the scenes by helping with website copywriting. Reflecting on why she chose to get involved, she says: “I was always inspired by what the Gift of Life is doing for children that are battling cancer. The charity plays a quiet role behind the scenes that gives so much when children and their families need it the most. I just knew that if there is anything I can do to help children, I want to get involved.”
What unites these volunteers, despite their diverse backgrounds, is a shared belief that no effort is too small and sometimes even a single act of kindness can mean and do so much. Whether designing marketing materials, organising events, donating, or simply spreading the word, each action helps young cancer patients receive the treatment and support they need.
Their stories remind us that volunteering isn’t only about giving time; it’s about creating connection, purpose, and hope. Together, these efforts make a real difference for children battling cancer and their families. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, we’d love to hear from you – please get in touch at info@giftoflife.eu.