Beacon leaders have made a public commitment to their cohorts’ futures, following in the footsteps of those who came before them, by signing the pathways pledge during a ceremony at Echuca Twin Rivers Specialist School.
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Representing the students of Echuca College, Moama Anglican Grammar, St Joseph’s College, Echuca Twin Rivers Specialist School and Australian Christian College, the leaders committed to exploring career options and undergoing further education, training or employment when they finished school.
They were joined by representatives of the five schools, program sponsors and community members, all pledging to support the students in their future endeavours.
Beacon student leader Charli O’Donnell said it was a privilege to represent her peers and sign the pledge.
“I’m really proud of everyone,” Charli said.
“It’s been a very long journey together, and to see the outcomes of what’s happened (during the program) is amazing.”
Before the pledge, which concluded the day’s proceedings, the hundreds of students, teachers and community members heard from guest speaker Freddy McLoughlan, who is originally from Torrumbarry.
He spoke about his path to international rocket-building success, his internship with Google, and how he got there by trying everything he could, telling the students to “ask stupid questions” as often, and to as many people, as possible.
Attendees then listened to a panel who spoke about about their journeys to employment and the challenges and gaps in their respective industries.
One of the panellists was former Real Futures program participant Jonathan McAsey, who student leader Keisha Hall said provided valuable insights, having once been in the same position as the cohort himself.
“I think that students take in a lot more information and listen a lot more clearly when it comes from someone who’s been in their shoes and has worked through the same issues as them,” Keisha said.
“Hearing from the people that started off where we once were and have now ended up in those positions is really good.”
The ceremony also served as a celebration of the Beacon leaders’ work throughout the year.
The leaders helped to plan and hosted events throughout the year, providing a youth perspective on how to run and adjust the program.
Mac Campbell said his experience as a student leader had helped him in more ways than he first thought it would.
“I’ve become a whole lot more confident with public speaking and talking together,” Mac said.
“(I’ve learnt) to handle (myself) and my leadership skills (have grown) every day.”
Madison Walkley, another of the student leaders, shared similar sentiments and said a highlight of the experience was witnessing her peers’ journeys.
“People came into the program unsure of what their futures were going to be, but the Real Futures program has opened minds and opportunities,” Madison said.
“Now lots of people are interested in different future careers (and are more sure) of what their paths are going to be.”
Watching students undergo that journey was also a personal highlight for Australian Christian College Beacon co-ordinator Armand Botha.
Mr Botha said the program served an important role in giving students guidance and self-belief.
“It creates connections between businesses and students,” he said.
“(It helps them) seek better opportunities and learn how to develop personal development skills to be able to go into their career options.
“It’s very good (that) they’ve signed the pledge because it shows they’re committed and honest and really want to create a better future for themselves and their community.”