In this powerful and deeply human episode of Good in Motion, Juliette speaks with Shabnam Naz Ansari, founder and CEO of The Volunteer Well, Canada’s first federally registered mutual-aid-based charity.

Together, they explore why asking for help feels so hard, how giving from your authentic self creates real connection, and why receiving support is one of the most courageous things you can do.

Shabnam opens up about her personal journey, the breaking points that shaped her, losing and rebuilding her relationship with her children, and the moment she realized her strength lived in vulnerability—not perfection.

This conversation is filled with warmth, truth, and unexpected wisdom that will stay with you.

“We do not ask for help because of the reason that it might lead others to think that we are weak.” — Shabnam Naz Ansari

Takeaways:

• Mutual aid is rooted in community, connection, and helping without judgment.
• Most people genuinely want to help, but asking for help often triggers shame or fear.
• Giving from your authentic self recharges you rather than burning you out.
• Receiving support is just as important as giving, because it deepens your relationships.
• Successful people often avoid asking for help due to pressure, pride, or fear of being seen as weak.
• Burnout often comes from performing or over-giving, not from genuinely serving others.
• A sustainable social enterprise relies on community collaboration, not just donations or grants.
• Daily rituals and intentional pauses help you reconnect with your “why.”
• Naming your inner critic helps you move through impostor syndrome.

Meet Shabnam Naz Ansari

Shabnam Naz Ansari is the Founder and CEO of The Volunteer Well, a federally registered mutual-aid-based charity in Canada. After a successful career as a senior executive, she experienced a series of personal and professional challenges that reshaped her understanding of strength, community, and purpose.

Her journey includes rebuilding after losing custody of her children, navigating isolation, and discovering that receiving help is foundational to healing. These experiences led her to create The Volunteer Well — a grassroots, community-driven charity focused on mutual aid, accessibility, and human connection.

Today, she leads programs supporting seniors, women, children, and newcomers while empowering local chapter leaders across Canadian communities.

Resources Mentioned

The Volunteer Well: https://volunteer-well.org