TWO TAFE Community Services students are helping organise the annual White Ribbon Coastal Walk as part of their course work.
Marette Smith and Emma Bull will ultimately graduate with a Community Services degree, after completing their Certificate IV and diploma level qualifications through a Port Macquarie TAFE pathway program, earning themselves up to 18 months off a four-year undergraduate degree and finalising their studies at Charles Sturt University’s Port Macquarie campus.
As part of their Certificate IV in Community Services assessment, the students are assisting Women and Children’s Refuge project co-ordinator Kylie Dowse, with administrative operations for the White Ribbon Coastal Walk, which is on this Sunday.
The walk is held annually to raise awareness of White Ribbon Day the following day and as a healthy and active way for the community to support the world’s largest male-led movement to end men’s violence against women.
“We recognise the positive role men can play in preventing violence against women. Standing together as a community and raising awareness about speaking out is a great place to start,” Marette said.
Both students agreed that having a positive awareness campaign to work with had provided them with experience and insight into connecting with the community through the community services industry.
Emma said domestic violence could turn a young person’s life upside down.
“I’ve always wanted to work with youth, to guide them through tough times such as these, and now I have the chance to gain valuable experience in this area,” she said.
Anyone who would like to join them in the walk must register first, either through the Port Macquarie-Hastings Domestic Violence Committee website or by contacting Kylie or Ahlia on 6583 2155.
