A SOON-TO-BE graduate from Donegal has made a difference for the environment and fellow students as “the driving force” behind a
new volunteer-run scheme at the University of Chester.

Yana Laszcziw has been praised for her care, enthusiasm and dedication in leading a team of students in setting up and running the University’s first-ever clothes and accessories Swap Shop.

The 20-year-old, originally from Donegal moved to Islington, London, where she took on the role of Swap Shop Project Co-ordinator among many other volunteering efforts during her time studying for a BSc (Bachelor of Science) with Honours Forensic Biology degree at the University.

A finalist for the University’s Student Volunteer of the Year Award 2025, she was inspired to go to university and study Forensic Biology by her parents’ police force roles.

Upon arriving, she was soon giving her time to a range of initiatives, including ‘Give It a Go’ sessions; from gardening at the University allotment, to Christmas window display design at a city charity shop, and becoming the Vice President and Charity Officer for the Catholic Society at the University.

On hearing about the idea for a Swap Shop at a Carbon Literacy training session, she said: “The project immediately held my interest as
I am interested in sustainability, charity shopping, and exploring different clothing styles.

“The scheme is a Swap Shop for all things clothes-related; we accept clothes and accessories donations from students and staff, and in return, they can choose items to take away with them, free of charge. The deal is: an item for an item, or a pound for an item if you don’t have anything to swap.

“Getting the Swap Shop set up and promoting each event took a lot more effort than I first imagined, but every moment has been worth it.

“I am particularly proud that we are saving clothes from landfill and promoting the second-hand clothing agenda, and that I am leaving something behind, that others can benefit from.”

Amy Butt, Sustainability Engagement Co-ordinator at the University, shared that Yana was “the driving force for its continued success”.

She continued: “Without Yana’s contributions, the Swap Shop would not have been possible, which would have deprived students and staff of the chance to access affordable clothing and raise awareness about fast fashion in a joyful and understanding way.”

Yana said she had gained a lot from her time as Swap Shop Project Co-ordinator and all her volunteering roles.

“I have developed my communication, event-organising and employability skills. I have also made connections and friendships while
volunteering.

“Moreover, these experiences have inspired me to support those in my community and foster a culture of care in daily life.

“The sense of fulfilment gained from supporting the vulnerable or providing a free service to those in need is so meaningful, as I have learned from my role as a telephone befriender for Snow Angels, a social enterprise which supports older people to continue to live independently and keep well.

“Also, being Vice President of the Catholic Society was a highlight of my time in Chester as I also feel a sense of fulfilment in helping to
grow a society, and, as with the Swap Shop, leave some sort of legacy.”