Thousands come forward to volunteer time, services for APEC Summit
By Liang Kaixin and Cheryl Lim, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 04 November 2009 1901 hrs

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SINGAPORE: Preparations for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings, which kick off on Sunday, are underway - with thousands of volunteers taking part to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Volunteer recruitment for the APEC summit started from as early as June this year.

For some, it was a chance to get a better understanding of what goes into policy making.

"I'm hoping to get insights of how the dignitaries and the government act, and how they create all these government policies," said APEC volunteer Inna Ryzhy.

Others took it as a good opportunity to expand their social and professional networks.

"You get meet people from all walks of life - students, retirees, jobseekers, and professionals as well," said APEC volunteer Christine Lee.

Some 3,000 people came forward, eager to be a part of the APEC meetings. But in the end, only 1,700 are selected.

"We are looking for people who are energetic, passionate, who has a high level of enthusiasm, and who understand what hospitality and service is all about," said Jamie Lim, consulting director of PeopleSearch.

The selected volunteers were required to undergo a one and a half day course on social etiquette. They will also have to familiarise themselves with background information about the APEC meetings and Singapore's local attractions.

The volunteers will be assigned to cover a wide range of duties, including receiving delegates at the airport and tending to the information booths located at various hotels. - CNA /ls