Shawbrook volunteers inspire St Bonaventure’s students through financial education
At the end of November, Shawbrook Bank partnered with St Bonaventure’s School to deliver an Insight Day focused on personal finance and future planning. Among the Shawbrook volunteers was Estela Noncheva, a Senior Risk Analyst who brought not only her professional expertise, but also a long-standing passion for supporting young people.
Estela joined Shawbrook just over two years ago after completing postgraduate studies in Finance. She explains that volunteering tapped into something deeply personal: “My motivation for volunteering at the insight day comes from a desire to teach and support others since I was a kid. While I’m grateful and fulfilled with my chosen career path, the idea of teaching has always held a special place in my heart. I genuinely enjoy being around young people.” She feels quite strongly that supporting young people is important because everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential, no matter their background.
Her goal for the sessions was clear:
to demystify personal finance and help students step into adulthood with confidence. Reflecting on her own teenage years, she wishes someone had explained the basics to her like credit scores, savings habits and financial choices before she encountered them for the first time as an adult. With many of the students soon turning 18, Estela’s aspirations for the day was to give them the tools and knowledge to make thoughtful decisions early on. “Even small steps, like opening a savings account or understanding how credit works, can set them up for a lifetime of opportunity,” she says.
Estela’s standout moment of the day was the students’ enthusiasm. Across three different classes, she saw young people leaning in, asking questions, and relating financial concepts to their own plans. Some were already saving for driving lessons or a first car; others were thinking ahead to university and student loans. Their maturity and curiosity left a lasting impression. “Their foresight and engagement always exceed my expectations,” she reflects. “It reminds me of how important it is to support young people.”
The experience also offered unexpected professional benefits. Presenting to students required her to adapt her communication style, simplify complex ideas, and create a space where young people felt confident enough to participate. “I realised how important it is to adjust your communication style to suit your audience,” she says, “and on a mentorship level, it highlighted that real guidance goes beyond sharing information. It can also be inspiring for young people to believe in themselves and make thoughtful decisions about their future.”
Beyond skill-building, the day brought a sense of fulfilment. “Their energy and fresh perspective remind me why this work matters,” she shares. “These moments reconnect me with hope and the belief in a better future for all.”
For those considering volunteering, Estela’s message is simple: Do it! “Even the smallest actions can create a powerful impact,” she says. And having Shawbrook’s full support makes a difference. “It shows a genuine commitment to giving back and makes me feel part of an organisation that truly values social responsibility.”
If you feel inspired by Estela’s story, you can work with us to volunteer in schools and help young people find their path to success.
