From Cadet to Leader: Lt Malachi Fontenelle’s Army Cadets Journey

For Lieutenant Malachi Fontenelle, volunteering with the Army Cadets is about more than teaching new skills. It’s about inspiring young people, building their confidence, and helping them realise what they can achieve. 

Having experienced the benefits of cadet life firsthand, Lt Fontenelle returned to the Army Cadet Force (ACF) in January 2017 as an Adult Volunteer, determined to give the next generation the same opportunities and encouragement he received. 

As part of Black History Month, we spoke to Lt Fontenelle about his journey, his proudest achievements, and why representation and diversity matter in helping young people reach their potential. 

From Cadet to Adult Volunteer 

Lt Fontenelle’s cadet journey began at the age of 11 when he joined the Air Cadets alongside his brother and cousins. After two years, he decided it wasn’t quite right for him. 

A month later, a conversation with a school friend changed everything. 

“My friend suggested I should give the Army Cadets a try. I joined his detachment that same week, and I absolutely loved it.” 

The variety of діяльність, friendships and opportunities to challenge himself made a lasting impression. Years later, those experiences inspired him to return as an Adult Volunteer. 

“I wanted to give back to the organisation that had supported me as a young person. The Adult Volunteers weren’t just teaching us activities; they were helping us develop as people, giving us opportunities and encouraging us to achieve things we might not have believed we could achieve ourselves.” 

Today, Lt Fontenelle serves as an ACF officer, having held roles including Detachment Commander and Media Officer at Company, Sector and Area level. 

His responsibilities have included leading cadets and volunteers, delivering training, supporting safeguarding and working closely with parents, schools and local communities. 

“For me, being an Adult Volunteer is about much more than delivering activities. It is about helping young people develop confidence, discipline, leadership and the belief that they can achieve things they may not have thought possible.” 

Transforming a Detachment and Changing Young Lives 

One of Lt Fontenelle’s proudest achievements was rebuilding 36 Cadet Detachment, which faced possible closure. 

When he took command, the detachment had just three cadets. Through recruitment, engagement with local schools and the community, improved communication with parents and investment in developing the volunteer team, Lt Fontenelle helped transform its future. 

Under his leadership, the detachment grew to approximately 60 cadets. 

However, for Lt Fontenelle, the achievement was about much more than increasing membership. 

“What makes me particularly proud isn’t simply the number. It was seeing the detachment become a place where young people wanted to be, where they could progress and where staff could develop as well.” 

The experience reinforced his belief in the power of leadership, persistence and teamwork to make a meaningful difference. 

It also demonstrated the positive impact that dedicated Adult Volunteers can have on their local communities. 

Developing Skills That Last a Lifetime 

Volunteering has given Lt Fontenelle opportunities to develop skills that extend far beyond his responsibilities as an Army Cadet. 

He has completed leadership training, including Initial Officer Training and the KGVI Course, while developing his instructional skills. 

“Those skills have transferred directly into my civilian career and my wider community roles.” 

But Lt Fontenelle believes some of the most valuable lessons have come from the cadets and fellow volunteers he has worked alongside. 

“Cadets have taught me that young people will often surprise you when you give them responsibility and allow them the opportunity to succeed.” 

He has seen firsthand how young people who initially lack confidence can become capable instructors and leaders with the right support. 

“Volunteering is a two-way relationship. We may be there to develop cadets, but the people we work with also teach us and help us develop.” 

Why Representation Matters in the Army Cadets 

For Lt Fontenelle, Black History Month offers an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black people, past and present. 

He believes seeing people from different backgrounds in leadership positions can powerfully impact young people. 

“I think it is particularly important for young people to see people from backgrounds like theirs represented in positions of responsibility and leadership. Representation can help someone realise that there are opportunities available to them that they may not previously have considered.” 

Lt Fontenelle also believes that diversity among Adult Volunteers benefits everyone involved in the Army Cadets. 

Volunteers bring a wealth of cultural, professional and personal experiences, helping cadets understand different perspectives and recognise that leadership and achievement can take many forms. 

“Diversity isn’t simply about having people from different backgrounds in the room; it is about valuing the different experiences and perspectives they bring.” 

For young people, this can help build confidence, understanding and respect, while creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. 

Reflecting on Black History Month, Lt Fontenelle also emphasises the importance of recognising Black contributions throughout the year. 

“Black history should be understood as part of our wider history rather than something that only receives attention for one month of the year.” 

Inspiring the Next Generation of Adult Volunteers 

For anyone considering becoming an Army Cadets Adult Volunteer, Lt Fontenelle’s message is simple: give it a go. 

He is particularly keen to encourage people from the Black community to explore the opportunities available and recognise the value of their own experiences. 

“You don’t have to arrive knowing everything. The organisation provides training and opportunities to develop, and you will have experienced people around you who can support you.” 

With volunteering opportunities spanning leadership, administration, music, communications, training and logistics, there are many ways to contribute. 

His journey shows how volunteering can be both rewarding and transformative, offering opportunities to develop new skills, build friendships, and make a lasting difference in young people’s lives. 

“You can come into the organisation with one set of skills and leave with many more.” 

Could You Make a Difference as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer? 

Like Lt Fontenelle, you could help young people discover their potential while developing valuable skills, meeting new people and making a positive contribution to your community. 

You don’t need previous military experience to become an Adult Volunteer. With training, support, and a wide range of roles available, everyone can get involved. 

Ready to inspire the next generation? Discover how to become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer