Meet SmellTaste volunteer, Jimi Harrison
SmellTaste volunteer Jimi Harrison is a printmaker and educator from Dundee, Scotland. For as long as he can remember, he has lived without a sense of smell. He felt this was something he had to navigate on his own, often feeling like no one truly understood what he was going through, but that changed when he discovered SmellTaste.
My journey with SmellTaste – finding a community that understands
After attending a SmellTaste session, I finally felt a sense of belonging. Listening to others share their experiences was both eye-opening and comforting. It helped me understand that I wasn’t alone and inspired me to get involved. I’ve always loved teaching and mentoring—sharing knowledge and connecting with people is what drives me. Volunteering with SmellTaste felt like the perfect way to use my skills to make a difference for a cause so close to my heart.
The roles I’m proud to play
Since joining SmellTaste earlier this year, I’ve had the opportunity to take on several rewarding roles. I am trained to co-host SmellTaste’s online peer support sessions called Let’s Talk Smell and Taste. Being able to connect with others and help them feel supported is something I really look forward to doing.
In 2025, I plan to support SmellTaste by raising awareness about smell and taste disorders and delivering their Smell Safety message through online presentations. As part of the SmellTaste campaign to improve access to medicines with multiple health conditions, focussing on Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwP), I’ll continue facilitating small group discussions to encourage sharing of experiences. I’m also excited to help train future GPs at Dundee School of Medicine, equipping them with the knowledge to better understand and address smell and taste impairments.
One of the most exciting projects for 2025 will be my involvement in helping SmellTaste plan a cycling challenge fundraiser. Cycling is a huge passion of mine, and I’m thrilled to combine it with raising funds and awareness for SmellTaste.
What volunteering gives back to me
Volunteering for SmellTaste has given me more than I expected. It’s not just about helping others—it’s also about what I’ve gained. Being part of a community that truly understands what it’s like to live with a smell disorder has been brilliant. It’s given me a renewed sense of purpose and a way to use my creativity and skills to make a difference. Being part of the campaign for people living with CRSwNP has been especially rewarding. Hearing their stories and experiences of feeling overlooked reinforces why I volunteer with SmellTaste — to help make a difference.
