My Life: Harry Howard, 19, Kent

My involvement with the charity flourished when I was invited to be a part of its Children's and Young People's Advisory Group (CYPAG). It exists to give young people a chance to share their views and experiences to influence the charity's future direction.

CYPAG holds three meetings a year for each age group. In March 2013, I was invited to a meeting of the CLIC Sargent management team, along with three other young people. I spoke to the team about CLIC Sargent's young person's Facebook group and the benefits that it brings for its members.

I was then invited to be on an interview panel for candidates applying for the role of director of people and learning. I spoke to candidates about their background, including why they had an interest in working for a charity that specifically supported young people with cancer, and I was able to identify who, in my opinion, was the best candidate. It was an informative and empowering experience.

CYPAG members share their stories and by drawing on real experiences are able to shape the direction of the charity. The involvement of young cancer patients – past and present – makes the aims of CLIC Sargent as valuable and meaningful as possible.

I regard my ongoing involvement with CLIC Sargent as life-changing. It has improved my confidence, my awareness and my determination.