Meet Natalia Voytsel

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Natalia Voytsel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Natalia , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience comes from the children and families we serve at “When Time Counts.” Every day, I witness their incredible strength, courage, and hope in the face of unimaginable challenges. These children, battling cancer with a spirit that is nothing short of inspiring, remind me why our work is so vital. Their determination fuels my own, and it’s impossible not to be resilient when you see the impact that love, care, and support can have on their lives.

Additionally, I draw resilience from the amazing team at “When Time Counts” and the broader community that supports us. Knowing that we are part of a collective effort—doctors, nurses, volunteers, donors—working together towards a common goal gives me the strength to keep pushing forward, even when the challenges seem overwhelming. At the heart of it all, it’s the belief that we can make a difference, no matter how small, that keeps me resilient.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

“At ‘When Time Counts,’ we are dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Our mission is to provide not just financial support for medical expenses, but also emotional and social care that helps these families navigate the journey of childhood cancer with strength and hope.

What makes our work truly special is the personal connection we build with each family. We know that every child’s story is unique, and we strive to tailor our support to meet their specific needs—whether it’s through arranging special experiences to bring moments of joy, providing mental health resources, or helping to cover the costs of treatments that insurance doesn’t fully support. Seeing the smiles on children’s faces when they achieve a milestone or have a dream fulfilled is the most rewarding part of what we do.

We’re also thrilled to announce an exciting new project: our foundation is working to build the first rehabilitation center in Poland specifically for children with cancer or those recovering from cancer treatment. This center will provide specialized care, therapy, and support services that are often hard to find, creating a space where young survivors can heal, regain their strength, and find hope for the future.

We’re incredibly passionate about this next step in our journey and look forward to making a significant impact on the lives of these children and their families.”

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

First and foremost, empathy has been essential. In the work we do, understanding the emotional and psychological challenges faced by children with cancer and their families is crucial. It’s not just about providing financial support; it’s about genuinely connecting with people, understanding their fears, hopes, and dreams, and being there for them in a meaningful way. For anyone early in their journey, I would suggest actively listening to others and putting yourself in their shoes as often as possible. Volunteering, mentorship, and community work are great ways to cultivate empathy and deepen your understanding of different perspectives.

Adaptability is another critical quality. In any mission-driven work, especially in the non-profit sector, things rarely go exactly as planned. Being open to change and ready to adapt quickly to new challenges or opportunities has been vital. To develop this skill, I encourage others to step outside of their comfort zones regularly, embrace new experiences, and learn to pivot when things don’t go as expected. Stay curious, be flexible, and always look for creative solutions.

Lastly, perseverance has been a cornerstone. The work we do can be incredibly challenging, emotionally and logistically. There are days when it feels like the obstacles are too great, but believing in our mission and staying committed, even when it’s tough, has been critical to our progress. For those just starting, my advice is to hold onto your ‘why’—the reason you began your journey in the first place. That passion will be your anchor. And remember, setbacks are just stepping stones; they teach you resilience and push you to keep going.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

“Yes, we are always looking for passionate individuals and organizations to partner or collaborate with at ‘When Time Counts.’ We believe that the best outcomes come from working together with a diverse range of partners who share our commitment to supporting children with cancer and their families.

We’re particularly interested in collaborating with:

Creative Minds: Individuals or organizations with fresh ideas and innovative approaches to fundraising, awareness campaigns, or support programs. We welcome those who can bring new perspectives and creative solutions to help us enhance our impact.
Healthcare Professionals: Medical experts, therapists, and specialists who can provide insights, services, or volunteer their time to support our mission. Collaboration with healthcare professionals can help us better address the complex needs of children undergoing cancer treatment.
Community Leaders and Influencers: Those who are well-connected and can help us amplify our message, reach broader audiences, and engage the community in meaningful ways. Your network and influence can help us raise awareness and drive support for our initiatives.
Corporate Partners: Businesses that are interested in sponsoring events, providing in-kind donations, or engaging in corporate social responsibility programs. We value partnerships that align with our mission and can help us achieve our goals.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Photos by Irina Skaskiewicz.

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