This article was written by Jeffry, Junior Designer at 24Slides Peru, as part of 24Slides’ #StorytellerProgram.
At 24Slides, we live by a value that guides our actions inside and outside the office: We Care. This philosophy extends beyond our workspaces into the communities around us. It’s not just reflected in our design or collaboration. It’s also present in how we strive to make a positive difference in society.
One of the most meaningful ways we bring this value to life is through 24Volunteer, a program that empowers us to collaborate with nonprofit organizations and apply our skills to causes that truly resonate with our mission.
Recently, I had the opportunity to volunteer with Aniquem, a Peruvian NGO that provides free, comprehensive rehabilitation for children and teenagers who are burn survivors living in poverty.
I can tell you in advance that it was a unique experience that allowed me to grow both personally and professionally!
Giving Back Through What We Do Best
After nearly two years at 24Slides, I had explored several initiatives focused on personal and professional growth. But 24Volunteer stood out. This program allows us to support social organizations in ways that go beyond traditional volunteering. We can contribute by sharing our design expertise or participating in direct, hands-on activities.
What makes this initiative so valuable is that few companies in Peru offer similar opportunities. To me, this is clear proof that 24Slides cares not only about its employees but also about the community, encouraging a culture of empathy and respect for others.
The difference between traditional volunteering and this kind of professional volunteering is clear. In traditional volunteering, anyone can participate regardless of their background. Professional volunteering, on the other hand, allows us to give back by using what we do best.
This experience showed me that I can make a real impact on the world by doing what I love most: design.
The Creative Challenge
Our volunteer work involved two presentation projects. In the first, I worked with Alfredo and Leonardo, and in the second, with Alfredo and Carmen. All Designers from 24Slides.
When we received Aniquem’s original presentation files, we realized they weren’t bad, but there were many opportunities to improve both the design and the storytelling. Our biggest challenge was finding a visual style that felt warm, hopeful, and empathetic while still conveying professionalism and trust.
Teamwork was essential. We divided tasks, held regular check-ins, and gave each other ongoing feedback. I learned a lot from my colleagues during this process: consistent communication and constructive feedback are key to achieving high-quality results.
One of the most impactful design decisions we made was simplifying complex illustrations into minimalist icons. This made the slides cleaner, easier to understand, and more visually appealing, without losing the essence of the message.
We also focused heavily on storytelling. We were clear from the beginning that every slide needed to contribute to the bigger picture. As a result, the final presentation felt like a cohesive narrative, not just a collection of data.
Aniquem and Their Inspiring Model
Before this project, I hadn’t heard of Aniquem. What inspired me the most was their innovative funding model: they finance much of their work through the recycling of plastic, paper, and cardboard. This model is really inspiring for me because it links social impact with environmental protection.
I was also struck by their holistic approach when treating the children and teenagers. Aniquem offers more than medical care. Their work includes physical and psychological therapy, along with education and prevention programs. That way, Aniquem helps heal not only physical scars but also emotional ones.
Lessons That Go Beyond Design
When we delivered the final projects, I felt that every hour we invested was completely worth it!
The biggest difference from my day-to-day work was the motivation. In my regular role, there are always projects, deadlines, and client expectations to meet. But volunteering was a conscious, selfless decision to invest my time in a cause. That gave the experience a unique kind of value.
On a personal level, this reminded me that anyone can help in one way or another. Too often, we get caught up in our own routines or remain in our comfort zones. This project helped me reconnect with the reality that many people live in very different situations, and that we all have something to offer. After this volunteering, I truly believe that sometimes it is better to give than to receive.
Professionally, I discovered a whole new way to apply my design skills. My work isn’t just about helping big companies communicate their products or services; it can also help nonprofits amplify their message.
With this strong visual asset, Aniquem will be able to communicate its mission to companies and potential donors, which can translate into more volunteers, more funding, and ultimately, more children receiving rehabilitation. I believe that a well-designed deck doesn’t just inspire confidence and credibility; it also can create an emotional connection with potential donors and partners.
For example, explaining their recycling model clearly could move someone to think:
“Donating just one plastic bottle can change a child’s life.”
That is the power of well-crafted visual communication.
Living the ‘We Care’ Value
Beyond my personal experience, what stood out was seeing how 24Slides as a company actively supports these initiatives. From People Success, with Mauro’s help coordinating with Aniquem, to our Design Lead, Valery, who gave us sharp feedback to elevate the designs, everyone played a role. It showed me that ‘We Care’ isn’t just a value written on a wall; it’s something we live and breathe in every project.
A special moment came when Aniquem surprised us with certificates of appreciation. We weren’t expecting them. I was traveling at the time, but my teammates received the certificates for me and handed them over when I got back. More than the certificate itself, what moved me most was knowing that the organization truly valued and appreciated our work.
At 24Slides, ‘We Care’ means caring for our clients, our colleagues, and society. This volunteering opportunity was living proof that value can translate into real action.
Looking Ahead
My experience with Aniquem through 24Volunteer was a reminder that design can be so much more than aesthetics or functionality: it can be a tool for social change. Sometimes, an impactful presentation can open doors, inspire hearts, and transform lives.
And I would absolutely do it again. I would love to keep using my design skills to support nonprofits, but I’m also open to exploring other kinds of volunteering, where I might not rely as much on my professional role but simply on my time and energy.
To my colleagues at 24Slides who haven’t yet joined 24Volunteer, I would just say: Go for it. No matter how small your contribution may seem, the key is to step outside your bubble, discover other realities, and offer what you can. I guarantee the experience will help you grow, not just as a professional but as a person.
I truly hope more companies embrace professional volunteering programs. When we combine talent with purpose, the impact we can create is limitless!
