Success Story - SSI Miranda Welham

Inspiring Growth and Confidence in the Army Cadets

Staff Sergeant Instructor (SSI) Miranda Welham has been a dedicated member of the Army Cadets for over 14 years, inspiring countless young people through her passion, patience, and commitment. What began as a casual visit to a local detachment quickly evolved into a life-changing journey of leadership, mentoring, and personal growth. Today, Miranda serves as a role model not only to her cadets but also to fellow adult volunteers, championing inclusivity and empowerment—especially for women within the organisation.

In this interview, Miranda reflects on her experiences, challenges, and the many rewarding moments that have shaped her time as a volunteer.

What inspired you to join the Army Cadets as a volunteer?

My former partner served in the Parachute Regiment and needed to collect something from my local detachment. I accompanied him and, while there, spoke with the Detachment Commander. During our conversation, he mentioned there was a need for more women in the unit and asked if I might be interested in joining. He provided me with an informational leaflet and, 14 and a half years later, I am still here.

How did your journey with the Cadets begin?

It started with my Potential Instructor training and progressed until I was ready for my Advanced Instructor Course/Cadre (AIC) —yes, that’s how long ago it was, when AIC was still a course!

What do you enjoy most about being part of the Army Cadets?

One of the most rewarding aspects of serving as an adult volunteer is witnessing cadets transform from quiet, reserved individuals into confident and accomplished young adults. Within my unit, we encounter some challenging cadets, but dedicating time to understand and support them yields significant results. Many go on to excel in the cadet syllabus, અને by the time they age out, they have accumulated impressive experiences and qualifications. Knowing that I played a role in their development is truly gratifying.

Can you share a proud or memorable moment from your time volunteering?

One particularly memorable experience involved a cadet who was initially very apprehensive about participating in the obstacle course. While I was running the session, she chose to sit out and watch from the sidelines as her peers completed the course.

After everyone had finished, I asked if she would like to try just one obstacle, accompanied by a friend and without the group watching. Encouraged by this more private setting, she agreed and successfully completed her first obstacle, visibly proud of her accomplishment. She immediately expressed interest in trying another and, within ten minutes, completed most of the course.

However, when she reached the A-frame obstacle, she froze halfway up and began to cry. At that moment, the rest of the cadets, seeing her struggle, began to cheer her on from a distance. I joined her on the other side of the obstacle, and with the encouragement of her friends and the wider group, she found the confidence to continue and ultimately made it over the top.

આ was a significant achievement for her, and upon finishing, her peers welcomed her back with hugs and congratulations. This experience underscored the profound impact that patience, support, and encouragement can have. With a bit of extra time and individual attention, I helped a cadet overcome her initial reluctance and develop newfound confidence in a previously daunting challenge.

How has volunteering changed or influenced your life?

Volunteering has had a profound impact on my life. Through this role, I have gained મૂલ્યવાન લાયકાતો, formed lasting friendships, and developed significantly greater confidence—along with, perhaps, a few new grey hairs along the way!

What skills or confidence have you gained through your role?

The ability to speak confidently in front of groups and my extensive qualifications enable me to be a valuable member of the Army Cadets, bringing a wide range of opportunities to both cadets and adult volunteers.

Serving as a Detachment Commander has been both rewarding and challenging, as the role now requires me to mentor and support adults as well as cadets. This expanded responsibility has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the organisation and to continue developing my leadership skills.

What does being a female volunteer mean to you?

When I first joined the cadets, there were very few female instructors or cadets within my unit; at the time, the composition was approximately 10% female and 90% male. Over the years, I have seen a significant and positive transformation, with many outstanding female instructors joining our ranks.

Today, my unit is comprised of approximately 70% females and 30% males. This remarkable shift is incredibly rewarding, and it is inspiring to see so many women actively involved in the organisation.

What would you say to other women thinking about joining?

I would tell them it’s hard work and there will be ups and downs, but it’s worth it. We’re an amazing community and will always help if you need it.

What keeps you motivated to volunteer?

My colleagues provide invaluable support, especially after a long day at work when motivation can be challenging. Their positivity and enthusiasm always lift my spirits and give me the energy I need.

Additionally, seeing cadets develop into remarkable young adults is a continual source of motivation. It is particularly rewarding when former cadets return to the unit to share their achievements or offer presentations to our current cadets about their professional roles within the community. Moments like these reaffirm the impact of our work and inspire me to remain committed.

How would you sum up your Army Cadet experience in three words?

Opportunistic. Camaraderie. Developmental.