|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
A new leadership course is helping some of Victoria's newest residents to find their own voice
|
|
|
|
|
Imagine finding yourself in a country that you know nothing about. The culture is different, the way people speak is different, and the opportunities are different. You know you have the skills and determination to contribute to this new land, but don't have the confidence or resources to do so. Then someone tells you about the Young Leaders of Today course.
The Young Leaders of Today program is a seven week course, developed by Australian Red Cross and the Centre for Multicultural Youth Issues, designed to provide leadership skills, training and self-development to new migrants. It encourages young people to take on leadership roles in the community, as well as achieve personal goals and address issues of concern.
'Participating in this program enables these young people to recognise social problems and it gives them the confidence and assertiveness to express their concerns,' said Sarina Bellissimo, Australian Red Cross Project Officer.
The program is offered in three locations, Broadmeadows, Preston and Collingwood through the Northern Metropolitain Institute of Tafe.
Graduates originate from a variety of backgrounds, such as El Salvador, Somalia, Thailand, Iraq, Lebanon and Sudan, but each is extremely enthusiastic about gaining a sense of belonging and contributing to their new life in Australia. |
|
A group of students who graduated from the Young Leaders
of Today course
|
According to Fadia Dawd, the path from Iraq to becoming a confident member of the Australian community was made easier through the Young Leaders of today course.
'The course has made me feel much more confident and I've decided I want to study so I can get a job in tourism,' said Ms Dawd.
The Young Leaders of Today course has proved extremely successful, and subsequent courses will be offered throughout the year. For further information, please contact Tammy Byrne or call 8327 7973.
|
|
|
|
|
|
.gif)
