Inspiring others to take the journey

Every Adult Learners Week, a small group of inspiring learners are chosen as Adult Learners Week Ambassadors. The stories of these learners – nominated by their learning providers – illustrate the many benefits of taking an adult education journey.

Prior to Adult Learners Week, these learners are supported to feel confident in speaking on radio and to journalists.

This year’s South-Australian ambassadors – Christiana Davies, John Lindsay, Farah Naz and Haydon Griggs – also spoke at the ALW launch, with an attendee saying after the launch that she “felt very privileged to hear all their stories and felt nothing but admiration for the hurdles they’ve overcome to develop their ‘super powers’ and achieve such success”.

These are the 2024 Ambassadors:

Kerry Hume – Victoria (pictured above)
Kerry Hume, a 40-year-old mother of three began her farming career two years ago and has since pursued various agricultural courses. Her dedication has led to her role as Assistant Manager at Aurora Dairies and recognition in the Great South West Dairy Awards. Kerry appreciates the supportive adult learning environment, which her enhanced skills are leading to new opportunities.

Christiana Davies – South Australia
Christiana, a refugee from Sierra Leone, has navigated numerous barriers to achieve her educational goals in Australia. She built her foundation through the Australian Migrant English Program and is now completing her postgraduate degree in mental health nursing while working in the field. As a leader in her community, she serves as Chairperson of the African Women’s Foundation for South Australia, demonstrating her commitment to mentorship.

Emma Griggs – New South Wales
Emma, a proud Wiradjuri woman overcame homelessness and educational challenges to transform her life. After working in the NSW Police Force, she pursued further education, earning diplomas in Counselling and Mental Health. Now 45, Emma teaches Community Services and Applied Aboriginal Studies, empowering others in her community through her own journey.

Melanie Cameron – Queensland
Melanie, a 22-year-old is dedicated to self-improvement despite facing intellectual impairment. With help from her support worker, she has engaged in adult literacy classes at Kawana Library, enhancing her reading and social skills. Melanie’s commitment to learning extends to volunteering, as she aims to seize more opportunities in the future.

John Lindsay – South Australia
John Lindsay, a 61-year-old River Ngarrindjeri man, embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and community education. In recent years, John returned to learning and completed a Skill Up program at Tauondi Aboriginal College. He is now enrolled in a Certificate I in Access to Vocational Pathways. As a respected Aboriginal mentor-leader, John supports others in their educational journeys, demonstrating his commitment to mentoring and lifelong learning. His presence in the classroom is inspiring, proving that learning and personal growth are ongoing processes.

Tim Royle – Western Australia
Tim, 37, has struggled with literacy due to dyslexia but has pursued improvement through a mature-age apprenticeship and work as a prison officer. After seeking help from Read Write Now, he is dedicated to enhancing his reading and writing skills. Tim’s journey reflects his resilience and commitment to lifelong learning and he hopes his story inspires others to do the same.

Farah Naz – South Australia
Farah arrived from Pakistan in 2013 to find that her teaching experience and qualifications weren’t recognised in Australia. After raising her three children, Farah decided to return to learning and enrolled in a Pathways to Children’s Services course. She then completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, before starting in 2023 as a Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) tutor with Novita.

Ornina Ekhtiar, NSW
When Ornina and her family were granted refugee status and came to Australia, she was determined to learn English. She successfully completed a Certificate I in Language and is now working towards her Certificate II in Workplace Skills at MTC Australia.

Haydon Grigg – South Australia
Haydon left school in Year 11 because of difficulties with reading, writing, and socialising with others. He enjoyed hands-on learning, but his struggle with self-confidence led to a spiral of depression and anxiety. Haydon has overcome significant mental health challenges through Eastwood Community Centre’s Adult and Community Education (ACE) programs. These classes and their support have been immensely beneficial, boosting Haydon’s confidence and enabling him to live independently.

Mick Curtis – Tasmania
Mick Curtis, originally from South Australia, began his working life in abattoirs and faced challenges with literacy. At 48, he accepted an opportunity from his employer to improve his skills through classes at the Geeveston Community Centre. With support from 26Ten, Mick has made significant progress.