Chief Minister`s Round Table of Young Territorians

CONTENTS
About the Chief/Youth Minister’s Round Table of Young Territorians ........................ 1
About this publication ................................................................................................ 2
Abbreviations ............................................................................................................ 3
1997 .......................................................................................................................... 4
1998 .......................................................................................................................... 7
1999 .......................................................................................................................... 9
2000 ........................................................................................................................ 11
2001 ........................................................................................................................ 13
2002 ........................................................................................................................ 16
2003 ........................................................................................................................ 19
2004 ........................................................................................................................ 22
2005 ........................................................................................................................ 31
2006 ........................................................................................................................ 35
2007 ........................................................................................................................ 40
2008 ........................................................................................................................ 44
2009 ........................................................................................................................ 51
2010 ........................................................................................................................ 58
2011 ........................................................................................................................ 65
2012 ........................................................................................................................ 71
Contact.................................................................................................................... 77
ABOUT THE CHIEF/YOUTH MINISTER’S
ROUND T ABLE OF YOUNG TERRITORIANS
The Chief/Youth Minister’s Round Table of Young Territorians (Round Table), is a
direct communication avenue between young Territorians and the Northern Territory
Government. The Round Table consists of 16 members, who are aged 15-25 years.
Members are representative of the geographic, cultural and ethnic diversity in the
Northern Territory.
The Round Table provides an opportunity for young people to get involved and have
their views about issues that interest or affect them heard by the Chief Minister/
Minister for Young Territorians.
Over 250 members since 1997 have been involved in numerous activities,
committees and projects.
Achievements of Round Table members include:
•
regularly providing advice to the NT Government;
•
being selected as members of executive judging panels;
•
being committee members on both State/Territory and National committees;
•
acting as representatives on a range of youth groups;
•
assisting in the research of many projects and programs;
•
attending and participating in schools, youth groups, conferences, seminars
and the youth network; and
•
implementing many community-based projects and initiatives across the
Territory.
Each year Round Table members meet four times to discuss important youth issues
with peers, youth groups, service providers, and government representatives.
Outside of the four meetings, members are approached for the feedback or input into
a wide variety of policies and initiatives.
Not only do the young people provide advice to the Northern Territory Government,
but they are also provided invaluable training, including with media, public speaking,
developing research and report writing skills. Each year members are provided with
an opportunity to identify what they would like to get out of their time as a Round
Table member.
Round Table members conduct research and consultation on a variety of topics and
issues throughout their term. Each member is asked to conduct a community-based
project where they research their project topic, consult with community members and
stakeholders, and formulate their findings and recommendations into a project report.
The culmination of the Round Table is a presentation at Parliament House to a range
of invited guests, including Ministers, Government departments, community groups
and other organisations. This is the final opportunity for members to present their
year’s work, including their community-based projects, and discuss youth issues they
are passionate about.
1
ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION
This document is a compilation of updates provided by previous members of the
Round Table. Unfortunately it has been impossible to contact every previous
member, however if you have been involved with the Round Table and would like to
be included in future publications please contact the Office of Youth Affairs.
2
ABBREVIATIONS
ABS
Australian Bureau of Statistics
AIME
Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience
ANU
Australian National University
CDU
Charles Darwin University
OYA
Office of Youth Affairs
NAIDOC
National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee
NT
Northern Territory
NYW
National Youth Week
RMIT
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
Round Table
Chief/Youth Minister’s Round Table of Young Territorians
UN
United Nations
3
1997
The Office of Youth Affairs (OYA), managed through the Department of the Chief
Minister holds the first Round Table of Young Territorians, with 16 members coming
on board for the first time.
The first ever Round Table consisted of 16 young members:
Alexander Smith
James Swan
Matthew Smith
Pryce Dale
Emma Luong-Van
Kate Ryan
Megan Coutts
Rachel Prior
Graeme Smith
Kylie Andrews
Moira O’Brien
Romina Santos Ilad
James Brennan
Larelle Sykes
Noel Ryan
Simona Di Tora
4
Moira Lanzarin (nee O’Brien)
I was in my early 20’s at the formation of
the Round Table, but had already been
quite involved in different organisations –
such as the Secretary of the Cattlemen’s
Association, involved with Landcare, and
as a youth delegate at the National
Constitutional Convention.
Post Round Table I went on to be a
member of the Deputy Prime Minister’s
Inaugural Regional Women’s Advisory
Council and later the Young Farmers Federal Advisory Council. I am a fourth
generation cattle breeder and lived on stations all my life. My husband and I and our
two sons live on Numul Numul Station, 110km east of Mataranka. Our family’s
company leases Numul from the local Aboriginal Corporation. Holistic Management
is an integral part of our management and our lifestyle– simultaneously ensuring our
operations are economically, environmentally and socially sustainable.
Assisting young people into agriculture is important to me and I have been actively
involved in mentoring and hosted and co-facilitated numerous training sessions
including two Indigenous Cattlemen’s Workshops. My work for industry, community
and the environment has seen me travel extensively, (including Paris, Geneva,
Brussels as part of the International Young Farmers Congress) and I have been
recognised as the NT Young Australian of the Year, received a Centenary Medal for
services to regional Australia and NT Cattlemen’s Young Leader Awards.
“The Round Table was a
wonderful training ground
for advocacy, advising
government and learning
how our political system
really works.”
Moira Lanzarin, 1997
The Round Table was a wonderful training
ground for advocacy, advising government
and learning how our political system really
works. The exposure gained from Round
Table opened many doors and opportunities
and introduced me to a wide range of
interesting and influential individuals. Plus it
gave me the confidence that my voice and
opinion was important and respected. The
camaraderie, mateship and teamwork with the
other Round Table members was very special
and something that I will always look on
fondly.
My advice for others thinking of apply is go for it!! You can make a difference and
your voice is important.
5
Megan Coutts
Since being on the first Round Table in 1997, I have led a
very full and exciting life.
I have travelled extensively and lived in Scotland after
finishing year 12, which was very exciting for a kid from
the bush!
I have had some wonderful jobs including working in the
mines and being a Club Manager.
I now reside in Darwin and still keep in contact with all my
old school friends – the joy of Facebook!
I adored my year on the Round Table. It was such an eyeopener! The people I met were fabulous and all the other
participants were inspiring.
My advice to young Territorians who are considering joining the Round Table is go
for it! It is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do!
6
1998
The 1998 Round Table consisted of 16 members with five members from the 1997
Round Table continuing for a second term.
Amanda Lutvey
Dean Williams
Kate Ryan
Pryce Dale
Angela Batterham
Fiona Newall
Kathy Fehringer
Purdey Curtis
Bardy Bayram
James Brennan
Larelle Skyes
Robert Elliott
Damien Moriarty
Jamie Kantilla
Moira O’Brien
Tegan Flemming
7
Damien Moriarty
I am 30 years old and based in Darwin working as a Company Director. I have a Law
Degree and I have been involved with a number of start-ups.
I love the Territory and reckon the Territory remains a great place to start new
enterprises. On my days off you will find me in the outdoors. One of the best things I
have done outside of work is participating on the Ship for World Youth Program, it is
an amazing program.
The Round Table was a great chance as a young man to just see and learn so much.
We were only the second Youth Round Table and a new youth policy was being
devised. The Chief Minister at the time walked in, gave us each a copy and said
‘what do you think?’ and we spoke to him for a couple of hours. He listened, things
were changed and some of our thoughts were in the policy by the next meeting. It
was very empowering, and very awesome. The Round Table is a fantastic program
and totally worth it. Make sure you find some time as a busy young person to apply.
Purdey Eades (nee Curtis)
I am 30 years old and currently living in Palmerston
with my husband and working in Darwin. I have
worked in 12 positions in seven companies in the 13
years since I was on the Round Table. I have worked
in everything from reception to management and a
range of organisation types.
I am still very involved in the community with Rotary
and different committees and boards. It is too hard to
choose one highlight from the Round Table. I think the
thing I valued most was the team work and the
opportunity to work with people both older and
younger than me. Learning how to work in teams at
such a young age has held me in good stead for the committees and teams I have
worked in since.
For those young people thinking about applying, make sure you just do it! It will scare
you, and it will test you and at the start you might not want to get on board, but by the
end of it you won’t want to get off. The Round Table will teach you skills you never
knew you needed and something you will never forget.
8
1999
In 1999, 15 new Round Table members were appointed with one member returning
from 1998.
Angela Batterham
Emanuel Siriotis
Kevin Ivinson
Nesman Bara
Calin Clifford
Gabe Reynolds
Laura Kelly
Paula Fong
Dean Williams
Geoff Redpath
Leanne Hayes
Tegan Flemming
Deven Crawford
Georgia Holt
Melissa Davy
Tiffany Stodart
9
Nesman Bara
I am 31 years old and still living in my community (Umbakumba) working as an
Executive Officer. Along with full-time work, I have now got a family of my own with
two girls, a six year old and a three year old. All the years I have worked closely with
government has given me experience and knowledge for where I am heading.
My highlight from the Round Table was working on a project regarding drugs and
alcohol. These have been issues that I anticipated would be challenging for young
people today. Another highlight for me during my time on the Round Table was giving
ideas and sharing stories around the NT. The Round Table made me confident to
speak and work with all sectors of government, and has helped me achieve what I
have done in the past years. I recommend that any young people that are interested
please join, as we are talking about the future of our Territory.
Paula Fong
I currently live in Singapore and have been here for the past four years. I love to
travel and have visited over 20 countries and 135 cities and can’t wait to explore
more of the world! Since my time on the Round Table, I completed a Bachelor of Law
and a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne and began my career with
the Boston Consulting Group in Melbourne. Now I work in marketing and brand
management for Starwood Hotels and Resorts, taking care of marketing for three
hotel brands and over 20 hotels across the Asia Pacific region. I love what I do as it
allows me to combine my passions for marketing and travel.
The highlight of my time on the Round Table would have to be being able to meet
other young people who were genuinely passionate about making a difference for our
peers. My advice to others thinking of applying is that you have to be in it, to win it!
Make sure you apply and give it a go. You won’t regret being part of the Round Table
experience.
10
2000
In 2000, 16 young people participated on the Round Table:
Abhishek Jain
Erika Carnogoy
Karl Gunderson
Rachel Warfe
Brook Ellison
Jolyn Muller
Keara Blindell
Samone Sallik
Christian Coffey
Justin Chambers
Lisa McGargill
Sylvia Smalios
Daniel Brown
Kate Bennett
Michelle Stephens
Tim Rose
0
11
Abhishek Jain
After serving on the Round Table in 2000, I completed
three tertiary qualifications and was admitted into the
legal profession. I have accrued diverse work
experience in private legal practice, the public service
and in community legal centres. I am now a family
man, with a lovely wife and two adorable young
children. We maintain an active family and social life.
My
hobbies
include
watching
educational
documentaries. I also love to regularly travel and
experience different places and cultures. I have
travelled extensively throughout the NT, Australia and
internationally. This includes experiencing short stints living interstate and abroad.
However I still call Darwin home having lived here now for more than two decades.
The Round Table was a fun and rewarding experience which I am honoured to have
participated in. It provided an avenue to engage with the youth community of the
Territory and advocate on their behalf directly to the government. It assisted in
developing my analytical, research, interviewing and public speaking skills. These
skills now service me well in my professional career as a lawyer.
My advice to those considering for applying on the Round Table is give it a go! You
won’t regret it!
12
2001
2001 saw 16 new young members participate on Round Table.
Anna Maria Socci
Elizabeth Grimley
Jason Wauchope
Kate Fuller
Candice Levy
Emily Findlay
Jean Toia
Shane Johnson
Dale Wootten
Gul Baqar
John Rawnsley
Troy Buckley
Dudley Clarke
Helen Roussos
Justin Lovett
Vicki Schultz
13
John Rawnsley
At 30 years old, and a decade since I participated on
the Round Table, I now manage the Desert
Leadership programs working for Desert Knowledge
and I am an Alderman on the Alice Springs Town
Council. I was the Deputy Mayor in 2009-10. I have a
Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Studies from Charles Darwin
University and I am currently studying a Graduate
Diploma of Legal Practice from the Australian
National University. I am a member of St. Philips
College in Alice Springs, and a member of the NT
Constitutional Convention Committee.
My highlight of Round Table was working with a group
to deliver a presentation to the Chief Minister about
bullying and harassment. It was great to be able to
work with a group and involve young people from
across the Territory in delivering what we felt was a
successful presentation. Having access to such a senior
level of government is a tremendous opportunity. There is so much to gain for young
people in the Territory, for those who want to contribute and are passionate about
what they believe in. Putting yourself forward to the Round Table is an opportunity to
develop your skills with other young people from across the Territory. I gained so
much and used the experiences as a springboard for bigger challenges and
achievements.
Vicki Schultz
I am currently the Manager of the OYA and my
experience on the Round Table was really the start
of my journey in the youth sector. I have worked in
OYA now for over ten years! I live in Darwin with
my partner, son Deegan, dog, turtle and fish, love
to travel (note to self....plan next holiday). I was
selected for a 2012 Tribute to Territory Women
Award by my work colleagues and former Round
Table members, which was lovely.
I applied for the Round Table originally because I
was concerned about things that were affecting me
as a young person, friends and family and I wanted to contribute to making things
better. I didn’t get in the first time I applied so I tried again the next year and was
stoked to not only get in but for being selected as Chair. I felt empowered to learn
that there are heaps of ways for young people to share their concerns but better still,
to take action and make a difference.
14
Round Table for me kicked off my passion for the youth sector and I became actively
involved in the sector locally, nationally and internationally in a variety of roles both in
a work and in a voluntary capacity.
As a staff member in OYA I have highlights and great memories from EVERY year
that I have been involved with. I have met some of the most amazing young
Territorians, developed strong friendships and networks. So give it a go! It’s a
fantastic opportunity to meet other passionate young people from right across the
Territory, develop skills, have fun, share your knowledge about issues with decision
makers and learn about all the opportunities and services available to you and your
peers.
15
2002
In 2002, the Round Table was made of up of:
Alexandra Williams Chris Earl
Maria Scaturchio
Rosalia Munkanome
Alicia Sims
Ivana Biorci
Nigel Browne
Ryan Whittington
Anthony Ormond
Karan Anand
Paola Ciarla
Sawittree Theerawatporn
Ben Lee
Leanne Rodney
Richard Riley
Tara Forscutt
16
Ben Lee
When I was a member of the Chief Minister’s
Round Table of Young Territorians in 2002, I had
just finished a Bachelor of Laws and had begun
working as an Article Clerk for Clayton Utz in
Darwin. After admission as a solicitor, I worked at
Clayton Utz until late 2005 and then started with
Allen’s Arthur Robinson in Brisbane. After
developing some expertise in resources related
law, I took a position as an Associate in the Oil
and Gas Group of Clifford Chance in Moscow,
Russia.
Upon returning to Australia in 2009, I made the
switch in-house with a gambling company in
Melbourne and now work as Corporate Counsel in the Australia/Pacific head office of
Mercedes-Benz. The highlight from my time on the Round Table was the various
face-to-face discussions we had with the Chief Minister and other Ministers about
issues of concern to youth in the NT.
“If you feel passionate about
something the Round Table is a
unique way to investigate issues.”
Ben Lee, 2002
If you feel passionate about
something affecting youth in the
Territory, the Round Table is a unique
way to investigate issues, develop
solutions with your peers of varying
backgrounds and experiences and
deliver your message directly to the
Minister.
Nigel Browne
I am a Larrakia and Wulna man from Darwin. I
currently work as a Crown Prosecutor with the Office
of the Director of Public Prosecutions. I have also
previously worked for the Solicitor for the Northern
Territory and the Chief Minister’s Office.
I am also the current Chairman of the Larrakia
Development Corporation, tasked with helping to
advance the economic and business interests of my
people.
In August 2011 I was awarded the National
Indigenous Legal Professional of the Year Award by
former Federal Attorney General Robert McLelland.
This national award is open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander legal
professionals and is judged on merit by the Law Council of Australia.
17
I am married with six children, ranging from 18 months to 15 years old. I enjoy ‘trying’
to keep fit, 4-wheel driving, watching the footy, cooking, spending time with family,
fishing and a good laugh.
My highlight from the Round Table included the opportunity to contribute to
discussions on issues affecting youth in our community, sharing ideas, meeting likeminded people, direct access to the government and Chief Minister, and developing
long-standing relationships with the other participants.
My advice for others considering applying for the Round Table is give it a try, if only
to prove to yourself that you can effectively contribute to and promote discussion on
the many issues currently affecting youth in the NT. The opportunity to communicate
directly with the Chief Minister is invaluable, and the connections you make during
the course of the year will open up other avenues and opportunities for you.
Tara Berry (nee Forscutt)
After finishing with the Round Table in 2002, I went
back to East Timor to live for a further few months
before moving back to Darwin. I started a job with
the Department of Local Government, Housing and
Regional Services. In 2004, I met my husband
Shane, and over eight years we had four
daughters. Their names are Sophie, Hannah,
Kaitlyn and Emily.
I have been on maternity leave for the past four
years and will be returning to work in early 2013.
So my life has been very busy raising four kids. It’s
very rewarding and I love watching them all grow.
My highlight from the Round Table was meeting
some really lovely people who I am still close
friends with. My advice for anyone considering
applying is, don’t be nervous and give it a go. I thoroughly enjoyed it in 2002. It’s a
great way to meet new people and form lifelong friends. It’s also a good way to learn
more about youth topics in the NT.
18
2003
In 2003, the Round Table was made up of:
Adam Flewell-Smith
David Hevey
Fiona Hughes
Matthew Cornell
Ben Woltman
Ella Cavallaro
Jackson Browne
Ruth Doran
Carmen Que Noy
Elyse Leech
Kylie Bloomfield
Steven Van Diermen
Chantelle Ransome
Emma Farnell
Leonie Williams
Talia Fletcher
19
Adam Flewell-Smith
I am 25 years old, working as a Steel Factory Labourer. I am also currently studying
Law at Charles Darwin University. I have a wonderful fiancé who I adore muchly.
These days I am living in Palmerston and participating in a variety of sports. I am
currently the Vice-President of the South Darwin Rugby League Club and a Level
One Sports Trainer at Wanderers Football Club. I am an avid karaoke fan, and you
can usually find me anywhere there is a microphone.
Being on the planning committee for the first Bass in the Grass event was a definite
highlight for me on the 2003 Round Table.
My advice to others considering applying for the Round Table is that you will never,
never know, if you never have a go!
Elyse Leech
I am 24 years old, and I now work at the YMCA of the Top End as a case worker in
the Youth Housing Program. I have worked in childcare, disability and in a youth
crisis refuge, but I have now finally found my groove! The highlight of my year on the
Round Table was the friendships I made, I’m still really good mates with the likes of
Adam Flewell-Smith and Chantelle RansomeI also enjoyed the tour of Don Dale
before it was renovated. My advice for anyone considering applying for the Round
Table is to go for it. Seriously, I enjoyed every minute of it. Great friends and great
opportunities!
Matt Cornell
I have been fortunate enough
to work in Australia, Europe
and South-East Asia as a
dancer, choreographer and/or
digital composer, spanning live
contemporary
dance
and
theatre to gallery installations,
film, rock concerts, video clips,
and street/performance art.
I have worked with people such
as:
Gavin
Webber's
DanceNorth, Random Scream,
Shaun Parker Company, Sarah-Jayne Howard for QUT, Strings Attached, Buzz
Dance Theatre, Angela Goh, Rimbun Dahun, Carlee Mellow, Marnie Palomares, Lisa
Wilson, Anton for WAAPA, Croc Fest., James Brown, Tiffany & the Curls etc.
I was the 2011 NT Young Achiever of the Year for Arts, a SPLENDID artist, a JUMP
mentee (under Antony Hamilton), a danceWEB scholarship recipient, a speaker at
TEDx Darwin and a HipHop artist in residence at the National Film and Sound
Archive constructing my debut solo album - “Population: Not Many”.
20
The future holds the creation of the S.I.K Bboy theatre show commissioned by
Darwin Festival, multiple choreographic commissions; QL2, AYDF, WI etc and a
premiere performing with Legs On The Wall. I'm currently writing my first book and
am an enthusiastic photographer.
The highlight from my year on the Round Table was the realisation that one should
have an opinion and that it should be informed, that the current state of the world is
always changing and to accept nothing solely, because “that’s just the way that it is”.
My advice to others that are considering applying for the Round Table is that taking
ownership for your community is one of the most empowering things you can do.
21
2004
The 2004 Round Table was made of up of:
Carrie Barlow
Emily Macmillan
Ngaree Ah Kit
Scott Cann
Chad Wilson
Leanne Washington
Roxanne Highfold
Serena Wilson
Daniel Bourchier
Matthew Lo
Sarah-Jane Saltmarsh
Shari Sebbens
Dean Garrett
Max Morris
Selissa Armstrong
Suzanne Cooper
22
Carrie Barlow
After a memorable year on the Round Table, I spent a year working and travelling
through Europe, before heading home to my family in Brisbane. I knew that I wanted
to continue working with young people in some capacity so I began post-graduate
studies in education. However, it didn’t take long for me to realise that high school
teaching was not for me. I found my niche in managing communication and
marketing projects for the Queensland Department of Education and Training.
Over the past five years, I have worked on high profile projects such as Creative
Generation, the 2007 introduction of Prep, the Q150 celebrations and the big
announcement that Year 7 will soon be moving to High School. I am currently living
in Brisbane with my boyfriend and my nine year old beagle, Valentine. We share a
love of sport and the outdoors and take every opportunity to travel and live life to its
fullest. There were too many highlights of my time on the Round Table, so I’ve
narrowed it down to four...making great friends (some of whom I still keep in touch
with today), meeting the former Chief Minister (Clare Martin) herself, getting a youth
newspaper up and running in Alice Springs, and being chosen for the Leeuwin Youth
Leadership Program.
My advice to others wishing to apply for the Round Table is do not be afraid of the
unknown. Often it is daunting to be thrown together with a big group of people you
don’t know, and having to work together with them to try and make a difference for
young people in the Northern Territory. It is not as difficult as it sounds. At the end of
it all, you’ll walk away with valuable life skills and experiences, a strong sense of
achievement and new friends for life. You might even have fun along the way – I did!
Daniel Bourchier
I am 26 and have just opened the first Northern
Territory bureau for SKY News and National
Indigenous Television. I recently moved back to
Darwin after working in TV news in Canberra and
Sydney, which followed working in print media in
the Northern Territory. My work involves covering
major breaking news throughout the Northern
Territory and reporting broadly on all facets of
Indigenous affairs. Where I'm at in my life and
career, is because of the many opportunities I've
been afforded. The highlight from my participation
on the 2004 Round Table without a doubt was the
friendships that I made.
Fellow members came from every walk of life,
and I was greatly affected by the sharing of
experiences and stories. The friends that I made on the Round Table are still friends
today, almost a decade later; and although we are in varying stages of our lives and
careers, the Round Table afforded us an invaluable opportunity to become lifelong
mates.
23
I feel that it is really important to be
open to new experiences, and
possess a willing ear to listen to
“There’s really not a minute to be
those sitting alongside you. It is also
lost.” Daniel Bourchier, 2004
very important to share your own
story and use that opportunity to
become comfortable in your own skin. There’s really not a minute to be lost.
Dean Garrett
Since the Round Table in 2004, life has changed in ways I could not even imagine,
both personally and professionally. The experience of the Youth Round Table
certainly influenced some of that, but some way just part of the evolutionary process
of growing up and figuring out who I am. Professionally, I continued with the NT
Government until November 2011 when I relocated to Queensland and commenced
with the Queensland Government. I am currently employed as a Principle Advisor in
Human Resources for the Queensland Audit Office but constantly on the lookout for
the next challenge. I have also continued work related studies and in 2008 I received
my post graduate qualification in Management.
I have undertaken training in fitness studies and am working part time as a Group
Fitness Instructor, which has become the real passion in my working life. Briefly, but
most importantly, my personal life is happier and more fulfilled than it’s ever been.
Since the move to Brisbane I get to spend a lot more time with my eight year old son,
and I have an amazing partner who inspires me every day.
It’s very difficult to identify just one highlight... there were so many things that I loved
about my Round Table experience. However, a highlight would have to be the
friendships that I made during that time and the fact that some of them still remain. A
number of those people have gone on to do pretty amazing things and in some sort
of strange paternal way that gives me a lot of pride. My advice to others thinking of
applying for the Round Table is, it’s probably a lot more work than you are expecting
it to be, but it’s definitely going to be a lot more fun and a lot more rewarding than you
are expecting also.
Matthew Lo
I am 33 years old and I have been living in the United
Kingdom for the last seven years, predominately in
London, working for a large construction management
company as a Senior Commercial Manager. I also
have co-founded Kiwi Group, a removals, logistics and
project management company based in South West
London, which employs around 30 staff. For fun I
regularly travel throughout the United Kingdom,
Continental Europe and North Africa to explore and
experience different cultures.
24
I like to keep fit by going to the gym, scuba diving, skiing, running and playing a bit of
golf. In 2012, I also commissioned into the British Reserve Army as an Officer.
My personal highlight from participating in the 2004 Round Table was meeting and
making great friends with such a diverse range of highly motivated people, and
carrying out challenging projects I probably wouldn’t have normally undertaken.
For those considering applying for the Round Table, give it your best shot, and be
prepared for some hard graft; but then it is extremely rewarding and great fun as well!
Max Morris
Since being on the Round Table I have been selected to represent Australia on the
Ship for Work Youth Program and I was also awarded the Young Territorian of the
Year in 2005. I am now 25 years old and living in Katherine, after having recently
moved back after a five year stint in Darwin.
The highlight of the year for me would have to have been working with some of the
most dedicated people I have ever seen in the Youth Sector in the Northern Territory,
namely Vicki Schultz and guests.
The Round Table is a great medium to achieve those things you would not normally
be able to achieve by yourself. If you have a project, goal or dream the Round Table
is your vehicle to make it a reality.
Ngaree Ah Kit
I am 32 years old, I still live in Darwin and I
have spent the past 13 years working in a
variety of roles within the Northern Territory
and Federal Governments in Darwin.
My Round Table experience gave me a
greater taste for politics, advocacy and
community involvement.
For the past ten years I have been involved
with a number of boards and committees, at
local, state and national levels, that have
focused on leadership development and
Indigenous affairs. Some of my most
memorable experiences were being a member on the National Indigenous Youth
Leadership Group, attending the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Women’s Gathering, and being a board member of my local Aboriginal medical
service.
I love travelling and have visited the U.S.A. and the south Pacific and I look forward
to visiting Europe and South America to appreciate the sights and soak up the
culture.
25
When I am not travelling or planning to travel, I spend time heading up a community
group called the Darwin Region Indigenous Suicide Prevention Network (DRISPN),
where our objective is to reduce the incidences and impact of suicide within our
community. It has been a privilege to watch the network grow and expand and
encourage dialogue and collaborative action between service providers who are
already working in this area. Like many others, my family and I have been directly
affected by suicide and I am determined to support community members to become
involved in our cause, as suicide affects so many of us.
In February this year, I participated in the International Visitor Leadership Program in
the U.S.A. During the program I visited Washington, Atlanta, Albuquerque, Santa Fe,
Los Angeles and Honolulu to discuss minority and Indigenous communities with a
variety of local stakeholders. It was a fantastic way to learn about the initiatives being
undertaken to benefit citizens and to bring home ideas of best practice for DRISPN.
Being able to sightsee and enjoy the local culture was a huge bonus for me.
My highlight from when I participated on the Round Table was definitely meeting
other young people who wanted to improve the quality of life for our Territory peers.
Vicki Schultz was awesome as the coordinator and encouraged us to reach for the
stars. I remember telling Vicki at one of the Round Table meetings that I would love
to have her job one day. And then six years later, I began working in the Office of
Youth Affairs as the Round Table Coordinator.
My Round Table experience changed my life and opened up a number of doors that
led me to where I am today. So I encourage every young Territorian to give the
Round Table a go, as you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Roxanne Highfold
Since moving to Alice Springs three
years ago from Darwin I have had the
opportunity to settle in well and am now
employed fulltime, permanently with the
Department of Children and Families in
the Child Protection Unit.
“Nothing is unachievable, no
matter who you are or where
you come from. The future is
yours!”
Roxanne Highfold, 2004
In order for me to work in this industry, I
need to utilise all my knowledge,
community awareness and cultural
understanding to carry out my role and responsibilities. I decided to enrol in studies in
the following areas to improve on my education: Social Services, Community
Development and Indigenous Management. These are just a few courses I’ve
undertaken that have assisted me in where I am today. At the time of being selected
to participate in the Round Table in 2004, I had just turned 18 years of age. I hadn’t
completed school nor was I enrolled in further education. I had no clue where my
career would progress. I was a part-time advisor for a local Indigenous organisation,
providing informal advice about youth development and working part-time as a
trainee for the Northern Territory Government.
26
Although I was young and did not have a solid future plan for myself, I always knew I
wanted to be involved in utilising my knowledge and experiences to working towards
a better future for all Territorians. I am now 26 years of age, in a relationship with an
adorable supportive partner and working full-time. I am considered a ‘role model’ in
my community. However, this title is not what I affiliate with. I personally believe I am
an Indigenous person living, thriving and working in my community towards a cause I
believe in. I couldn’t really choose one highlight from my time on the Round Table.
Upon reflection, being successfully chosen to be a part of this unique program was a
highlight in itself.
My advice for others considering applying is: apply yourself, be disciplined, and be
determined to be a part of change! Nothing is unachievable, no matter who you are
or where you come from. The future is yours!
Sarah-Jane Saltmarsh
Bangladesh. Vibrant,
heartbreaking, resilient,
colourful, inspirational,
conniving and beautiful. The
incredible country has been
my home for the last year
and a half, and has brought
more quirky and amazing
characters into my life than I
could have ever imagined
when leaving Australia’s
sunny shores.
Bordered by India and
Myanmar, every day is
different in a country which has so many religious and cultural influences – from
enjoying sanctified food and throwing colours during Durga Puja to catching local
wooden boats to explore hillside Buddhist temples and then travelling back to
prepare for the festivities of Eid al-Fitr, one of the most important holidays on the
Muslim calendar world-wide.
I came to Bangladesh firstly for a year as an Australian Youth Ambassador for
Development, working with the International Labour Organisation (ILO). I have
stayed on as a consultant since and have no plans to leave just yet – for now, this
intoxicating country still has many more undiscovered corners which I have yet to
experience.
Having some experience in personal training from Australia, in my spare time I train
women at the local gym, encouraging them to run their own fitness classes, use
bicycles for transport and cook healthier meals for their families. Education reform is
a national initiative which has long-term results, so it is a definite motivator to also
see short-term results, and my friends really getting interested in living healthier
lifestyles.
27
The biggest highlight of being part of the Round Table was the people; the Round
Table attracts a great group of inspirational young people who have fantastic visions
for the Northern Territory. It was the year I spent in the Round Table that first sparked
my interest in working in remote Australia, and the resultant two and a half years
which I then spent working in a community-controlled Aboriginal organisation were by
far some of the years which I have learnt the most about life and had the most fun. I
am still in touch with a lot of the members now and they are still pursuing great goals,
except it is not just in the Northern Territory anymore, but all around the world.
As a society, I think we are facing some important questions at the moment that will
shape our planet for years to come and young people not only have the answers to
many of these questions, but also the energy to make the changes that need to
happen.
My advice to those who have the opportunity to be part of the Round Table is to just
go for it! Meeting so many inspirational young people will really open your eyes to
what can be achieved in your local community, and will push you to achieve things
you don’t even realise you can do. From my own experiences, life begins at the end
of your comfort zone – and the Round Table is a great first step in pushing yourself
out of your comfort zone.
Scott Cann
Hello, my name is Scott and I was a member of the
Round Table back in 2004. I am now 26 years old
and currently live in Windhoek, Namibia working as
a Monitoring and Evaluation mentor for a regional
African non-government organisation (NGO) that
helps local people affected by HIV. Previously, I
have had the fortune of working in the Pacific in
Vanuatu working with farmers in a local NGO.
Before that I worked in a number of different and
challenging sections within the Northern Territory
Treasury which I immediately began after
graduating from the Australian National University in
Canberra. During my studies I was fortunate enough
to study overseas in Copenhagen, Denmark for 12
months. I continue to enjoy pursuing my passions in
climbing and cycling and have had the chance to climb and cycle throughout Africa,
Europe, New Zealand, south-east Asia and Australia and have many more
adventures planned.
I had two highlights from the Round Table; firstly, presenting a year’s worth of work
and effort directly to the Chief Minister, and secondly, meeting inspiring and exciting
young people from all over the Northern Territory, some of whom I am still friends
with today.
28
My advice to others wishing to apply for the Round Table is that you should not let a
lack of experience or skills deter you. We all start somewhere and the Round Table is
a great way to build upon and apply your existing skills to practical and meaningful
outcomes. The Round Table is a valuable and rewarding experience and I highly
recommend that anyone interested apply.
Serena Wilson (Coleman)
Since 2004 a lot of things have changed. I gave birth
to a very healthy baby boy in 2005 and a beautiful little
baby girl in 2009, completing my family of three
beautiful kids. I moved from Darwin at the end of 2006
to live and work in Victoria and Tamworth, New South
Wales for four years. I returned to Darwin in February
2011 and am enjoying the challenge. I love the mining
industry and everything it brings to the Territory. I now
live in Humpty Doo where I was born and raised; I love
the lifestyle for my children. Who wouldn’t want to live
on five acres and be free to run, scream, jump and
play every day? I am no longer married as I was back
in 2004, life works in mysterious ways and I am all the
better for it. I still enjoy singing and writing music, but
that is much more of a hobby now than anything else, although I am still waiting for
my karaoke night with Daniel Bourchier. We had a few of those back in the day and it
was always a lot of fun, and a little bit of who could do it the best.
One of the highlights for me was being nominated as the Chair of the Round Table
by my peers. I enjoyed the role, knowing that I had to be at my best to support
everyone else and make sure our projects had great outcomes. The best highlight
was meeting so many amazing, talented, beautiful young Territorians and being able
to still call them friends now. The passion we had for our chosen projects was a great
feeling and something I will never forget. I look at the members from 2004, and as
one of the older members at 23/24, I have to say how proud I am of how far we have
all come in the past eight years. Oh and Daniel Bourchier daring me to get a photo
with Ben Dark at the Mindil Beach markets – like I need to be dared? That was a
highlight for sure!
“JUST DO IT!! Do it for yourself,
and your peers. One day you will
look back on your time and
realise what an awesome job
you did!” Serena Wilson, 2004
JUST DO IT!! If you have a passion for
something you think will benefit other
young people within the Northern
Territory; if you have a drive to see
things changed; the Round Table gives
you that voice. I did my project on youth
suicide and it was a very hard taboo to
crack.
29
It was hard to get people to talk about it, but it was uplifting to see so many other
people just as concerned as me and willing to help as much as they could to give me
the answers I needed to complete my project and present it to the Chief Minister of
the Northern Territory. If you don’t think anyone will listen to your views, the Round
Table is there to provide a voice for the Youth of the Territory. It is a wonderful
experience and makes you aware of the bigger picture. Do it for yourself, and your
peers. One day you will look back on your time and realise what an awesome job you
did.
30
2005
16 new Round Table members were appointed in 2005.
Alana Norton
Christine Cottle
Jarrad Newman
Pru Gell
Alice Chang
Dwain Westbrook
Joel Bruce
Ramesh Jeffery
Catherine Murray
Felix Allsop
Michael Pearson
Rebecca Weller
Chloe Smith
Hailee Skinner
Owen Strathie-Murray
Sarah Manning
31
Alice Chang
I am currently living in Queensland, and working as a doctor with children and young
people. Since being on the Round Table I have worked as a volunteer doctor in
Africa, India and China, as well as in rural and Indigenous communities in
Queensland. I have won the Sir John Monash Award and Gates Cambridge
Scholarship to do a Masters in Public Health at Cambridge University.
My highlight of the Round Table was meeting the other inspiring young people who
were on the Round Table and having the opportunity to give young people the
chance to have a voice in the government decision making process and have their
opinions heard.
Round Table made me feel like I was able to make a difference for others. For those
who wish to apply for Round Table, make sure you stand up for something you are
passionate about.
Catherine Murray
I was only 20 years old when I
participated in the Round Table.
Although at the time I of course
thought I knew everything, I look
back now and realise just how
young I really was. In saying that,
we achieved a lot that year.
Being Chairperson of the 2005
Round Table instilled a confidence
in me that eventually led to an
overseas adventure that lasted five
years. I have been working since I
left high school and during my time with the Round Table I was employed with TIO.
Once my year ended and the annual report had been published, I walked into a travel
agent and booked myself on a Contiki tour through Europe leaving in June 2006. I
was so excited for what lay ahead. As it turns out I had such an amazing time
meeting new people and immersing myself in new cultures that the years flew by and
it was only in March of 2011 that I made the decision to return to Australia.
Being selected as the Chairperson was a definite highlight with my participation in the
Round Table. I was quite daunted by the task ahead of me but when I look back now
I am so proud that Vicki and Deb, and whoever else may have been involved in
selection process, saw that leadership in me. It encouraged me to believe in myself
and understand that with the right attitude and of course the right support, anything
was possible. My support came from not only the Vice Chair but also from Serena, a
previous Round Table Chair. Her knowledge and advice was invaluable as she had
been through it all before. The great OYA staff were always available for advice and
a great source of information.
32
The advice I have for others who wish to apply for the Round Table is
COMMITMENT! I may have spent this bio singing the praises about my time on the
table but it wasn’t all fairy cakes and rainbows. It was a lot of hard work and this hard
work was rewarded with the new friendships I made, the success of each team and
their projects, and watching the growth and experience of each member over the
year.
There is so much support available to you. People are only a quick email or phone
call away, so if you ever feel overwhelmed by it all please just voice your concerns
and there will be someone who can help. The feeling you get at the end of the year
when you present your hard work to the chosen invited guests, knowing that
something can result from all of it, is a great feeling! It makes the whole year worth it.
Owen Strathie-Murray
I am 30 years old. I am planning on going back to Charles Darwin University to
develop my qualifications further. I really enjoyed my time on Youth Round Table and
it is great to see the changes that were put into action. Not everything you contribute
ends up being fulfilled but it’s nice to see the ones that have and think “I helped with
that”.
My advice to others participating on Round Table is, do not let yourself get
overwhelmed, and if your ideas don’t get put through right away, don’t feel
discouraged.
Ramesh Jeffery
I am currently working in Territory Housing and hold the position of Tenancy
Manager. Meeting new people and trying to make a difference for the youth of the
Territory in a positive way was a definite highlight for me on the Round Table. My
advice for others considering applying for the Round Table is to stay committed and
focused and remember that any changes that you are trying to make are for the
youth of the Territory as a whole.
Rebecca Healy (Nee Weller)
I am still living in Tennant Creek and managing the
Eldorado Motor Inn, but youth affairs is still my
passion. I am a mother to two beautiful boys that are
now school age and I continue to foster care. I wanted
to work for myself so I could have the flexibility to
continue to work in the Youth Sector and Community.
In 2011, I won the NT Young Achiever Award and
Barnardo’s Mother of the Year. I am still heavily
involved in the community and the Barkly Youth
Service Providers network.
33
The highlight of my time in the 2005
Round
Table
was
gaining
encouragement
and
finding
confidence in myself. I found a lot of
mentors
and
formed
many
friendships that I have kept to this
day.
“Being a member of the Round
Table gives you an opportunity to
make a big step to becoming
more involved in the community.”
Rebecca Healy, 2005 & 2009
In 2011, as a member of the Round
Table, I had the opportunity to be a
leader and lobby for more youth
services in the Barkly Region. Being a member of the Round Table gives you an
opportunity to make a big step to becoming more involved in the community.
The Round Table has members from diverse backgrounds and you get support and
encouragement for any program/ service/outcome you are trying to achieve.
Sarah (Sez) Manning
When I was on the Round Table I was
living in Tennant Creek and managing the
local public library. Not long after finishing
my term, I was offered a project
management position with the Australian
Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and returned to
Darwin. After being Project Leader for the
ABS National Indigenous Community
Strategy for a few years I changed pace in
2008, moving to New Zealand to work on
a ski field for the winter. Gaining a taste
for snow and a passion for snowboarding, I have since then been following the snow
between New Zealand, Canada and the United States.
My highlight on the Round Table was being a part of a great bunch of young
Territorians who were impacting the community to benefit other young Territorians.
Get involved! Get involved in the Round Table, the community, your school, your
workplace... It’s not about where you’re involved, it’s the exposure to different ideas
and experiences, creating opportunities and making the most of every opportunity,
and most importantly, it’s about the contributions you make to the work around you –
lend a hand, influence decision making, innovate, be the person that makes the
difference.
34
2006
The 2006 Round Table included:
Annalise Durilla
Hannah Watts
Kevin Kadirgamar
Robert Dalton
Chee Lean
Jaimie McIntyre
Lisa Deveraux
Rose Sadleir
David Johnson
Justin Murphy
Louisa Bayne
Tammy-Jane Reece
Emily Ryan
Kelsey Rodda
Perri Fletcher
Vanessa Matsen
35
Hannah Watts
I am still living in Darwin, and work as a Case Manager for homeless youth, as well
as running a few youth recreational and mentoring programs. Over the last few years
I’ve had some amazing opportunities, including travelling to remote communities,
working at a school, taking 70 teenagers on a road trip around Australia, and working
with refugee families. I’ve also had a few overseas adventures, and spent three
incredible months driving around Australia.
I’ve been studying Community Development externally, and in the next couple of
years, I am planning to head to Perth and then overseas to finish my studies.
My highlight of the Round Table was all the crazy fun we had at our weekend
meetings. We worked hard at them, but we played hard too! It was great hanging out
and being inspired by such a diverse group - we all came from different places and
different backgrounds, but had a common purpose. Completing our community
based projects, and being able to present them at the end of the year was a pretty
great feeling too.
Don’t hesitate to apply – it’s a great opportunity to learn, to have a voice, and to
contribute to something worthwhile to the community... And you will have heaps of
fun!
Justin Murphy
I am currently 26 years old and studying education
in order to become a secondary school teacher. I
also work part-time for the NT Government. I
recently married my long-term partner and we went
to Vanuatu for our honeymoon. I have been busy
with university and work, so our family will remain
as two people for at least another couple of years.
My highlight from the Round Table was meeting
great people, some of whom I am still in contact
with today. Another highlight was the chance to
share information amongst such a diverse group of
people, it was a real eye-opener.
I strongly encourage other young people to apply,
submitting the application is the best thing to do.
Aside from this, show that you are interested in giving your efforts to the table, but
also be prepared to accept someone else’s point of view (even if you cannot imagine
why they think like that).
36
Kelsey Rodda
I am still living and working in Alice Springs. I am the publicity and promotions
manager for the Araluen Cultural Precinct which incorporates the Araluen Arts
Centre. I am an active member of the Alice Springs community through netball and
have been lucky enough to represent both Alice Springs and the NT at Territory and
national championships. I am still involved in one of Central Australia’s biggest
annual sporting events, the Finke Desert Race. This has provided me with the
opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications in motorsport officiating and
has assisted my career development through skills I have gained in training and
experience in administration and marketing.
I have travelled all over Australia to experience different motorsport and extreme
sporting events such as V8 Supercars, Australian Supercross and Off Road Racing. I
now have a beautiful two year old daughter with my partner. My highlight was the
people I met through being on the Round Table. I still stay in contact with a few of
them and it’s great to see them all doing so well and enjoying life! The biggest piece
of advice I have to those wanting to apply would be to get started on your project
early, and to keep up to date. Do not let it creep up on you at the last minute. Also,
keep in touch with the people you meet and keep an open mind to other people’s
opinions and beliefs. Try to see the positive in things and always have a possible
solution to any problem you are presented with.
Kevin Kadirgamar
I am 22 years old, and I am currently working as a Law Clerk with Ward Keller
Lawyers. I am also currently completing a double degree in Law and Business
(Management) at Charles Darwin University and a Graduate Diploma in Legal
Practice at the Australian National University.
The Round Table experience inspired me to get more involved in youth-led initiatives
in the community. Since finishing my time with the Round Table, I’ve been involved
with organisations like Multicultural Youth NT, Darwin Youth Organisations Network,
and the Australia Youth Forum Steering Committee, which provides advice on youth
engagement to the Federal Government. With these experiences I was able to
initiate student organisations and activities at Charles Darwin University, such as the
Charles Darwin University Model United Nations (UN) and Student’s Association.
Being involved in youth-led activities has given me numerous opportunities to
network widely, having attended international conferences such as the
Commonwealth Youth Parliament, UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural
Organisation International Youth Leadership Program and the Harvard National
Model UN.
My highlight from the Round Table was working together with a bunch of like-minded
people committed to taking initiative in their communities. We inspired each other to
keep going and to make things happen throughout the year. Apart from having the
charge to report to the Minister through our formal project reports, the informal
feedback we were able to provide through the Round Table meetings was invaluable.
One of the other highlights was taking up the issue of school bus schedules with the
37
Minister. I remember the day of our graduation that year when we were finally told
that there would be a whole new bus schedule created to address the issue. It was
the opportunity to make small changes like this that helped make the Youth Round
Table experience special. The Round Table is an opportunity that every young
Territorian should consider. No matter who you are or where you are, young people
have unique ideas and experiences that need to be communicated to the
government. Make the most of the opportunity and never underestimate how much of
a difference you can make.
Perri Fletcher
I participated in the Round Table in 2006. I was 16 years old then (seems like a
lifetime ago). Now I am 22 years old, and have a four year old son named Boyd and
life consists of being a great Mum to my beautiful little boy. A lot in my life has
changed since being on the Round Table. I am still very much interested in youth
events and recently decided to become a teacher, so I can reach youth straight on
and make a difference in their lives.
I am currently working on some projects of my own with hopes to start a small
business venture aimed at youth, but I’m not going to give away what I have planned
as it’s still a work in progress. The greatest highlight I have from the year I
participated in the Round Table is that I got to meet some great people who I know
will change the world and change people’s lives, because they certainly changed
mine. My advice to others that are considering applying for the Round Table is yes,
go for it! The amount of information you get out of it and the experience you have
sourcing your knowledge for your own projects will make you want to do it, time and
time again.
Robert Dalton
Since the Round Table, I have travelled around
various Territory Government departments and
spent several years as a Policy Officer with the
“You will grow as a
Northern Land Council, which was great as it
person simply by getting
allowed me to work closely with Traditional
involved”.
Owners on some of the more important issues
Robbie Dalton, 2006
facing them. Through this work I have got to
spend a lot of time in communities and have
been able to get some exposure to the other end of town – going directly from
meetings in Yirrkala to lobbying Federal Ministers in one weekend was surreal and
fun as well! During that time I also found the time to get married, spend some time in
New Zealand and Tasmania, and I now have two young sons. Meeting all those
people from 2006 was definitely a highlight – I made good friends, and would love to
see how we are all doing as a group.
38
The report that my team produced that year had some really good findings about
where young people should seek information about sexual health. It would be good
to revisit that and find out if there had been any changes made over time.
Applying for the Youth Round Table should be one step you take in getting involved
with your community. All young people should take the opportunity to get involved in
their community and make their lives better in small ways.
Tammy-Jane Reece
I participated in the Round Table in 2006. In 2008,
I decided to make the big move out of Darwin to
the bustling city of Melbourne. With an interest in
mental health and the desire to learn and care for
people, I decided to study Nursing at the Royal
Melbourne Institute of Technology University. I am
currently working in the opposite side of the
spectrum, with elderly dementia patients. I love
working with the elderly. It’s exciting and I have
had the opportunity to witness some amazing
things.
In June and July of 2011, I decided to go out and experience the world and
backpacked throughout Europe. It was definitely an amazing experience, and one
that I recommend to everybody. One of the many favourite memories from my trip
would definitely have to be sipping champagne at the top of the Eiffel tower in Paris.
There are so many good memories from my time on the Round Table that is hard to
just pick one. From meeting Marion Scrymgour, the then Minister for Young
Territorians, to the scary rope course for the team building exercises. Having the
opportunity to learn and develop my skills on a professional and personal level was
an amazing prospect that I recommend to everyone. Meeting people who are likeminded and care about young people and the local community gave me a sense of
belonging and faith that there are good people in this world. That change starts from
discussion, taking into account that we all have a voice to be heard. I still keep in
contact with the friends that I have made on the Round Table to this day, and overall
it’s the highlight from the Round Table that continues to keep on giving.
My advice to others applying is to just keep on trying. I did not successfully get a
position on the Round Table until my second attempt. But with hard work and
determination, you can achieve anything. Trust me, the experiences, opportunities
and amazing people you get to meet whilst on the Round Table is worth the
application process.
39
2007
Ten years on, the Round Table is still getting new members every year. The 10 year
anniversary members included:
Clare Paynter
Karlie James
Nathan Frick
Shamim Kholosi
Claire Ryan
Katrina Halse
Nicolette Pearce
Shashank Ramakrishna
Darby Bicheno
Lauren Jew
Rosalind Beadle
Siana Cork
Jacob Andreae
Lyndon Duncan
Sarah Morris
Tara Alexander
40
Claire Ryan
Born in Adelaide, I have lived in Alice Springs my
entire life
I completed Year 12 in 2009 at St Philips College
and was selected as Vice College Captain and
Round Square Prefect. In my gap year I worked
for the Northern Territory Major Events Company
on the Alice Springs Masters Games. I am
currently working for the NT Supreme Court as a
Deputy Sheriff.
In 2007, I worked on a report with my fellow
Round Table members, Sarah Morris and Tara
Alexander, titled “Youth Curfew Report”. Our
report explored the concept of the current Alice
Springs Town Council’s proposed youth curfew
and the impact it could have on the community.
We conducted extensive consultation through the Alice Springs community to decide
if a youth curfew would be appropriate and its success if implemented. Working on a
report that covered an issue which was extremely controversial at the time, made our
work extremely interesting. In 2011, the issue of a youth curfew in Alice Springs
resurfaced and our report was quoted and referred to in a number of publications.
Looking back at the report, I feel that between our team we tackled an issue that
really meant something, and our research made an impact.
To me, the confidence that the Round Table gave me, really empowered me in my
community and even in my own life. It taught me to be aware of issues in our
community that face young (and old) and to not be complacent with unsatisfying
approaches to issues. I feel that Round Table gave me the confidence to apply for
different things and to throw my hand up to always learn more about our community.
Clare Paynter
I am 20 years old and I am currently in my
second year of Engineering (Renewable
Energy) and Arts (Political Science) at the
Australian National University in Canberra.
I am one step closer to reaching my goal of
working with solar energy and policy
development. I think that I grew a lot over
my year on the Round Table.
“Go for it! The NT has so
many opportunities. You
won’t look back.”
Clare Paynter, 2007
I was in Year 11 at the time, and fairly young. It opened my eyes to many things that I
otherwise may not have contemplated until considerably later in life. Aside from an
incredible network of young people, in participating I developed many presentation
and communication skills that are of great benefit today.
41
Jacob Andreae
I am 28 years old and still living
in Darwin working as an
Education Advisor in Physical
Education. I am currently
studying a Graduate Diploma
of Psychology and have
recently become a dad, twice!
Since the Round Table, I have
taken two terms off teaching
and have travelled, to the
United States in 2009, and to
Europe in 2011. I also started a
strength
and
conditioning
business, training the public in
one-on-one personal training and group fitness, as well as sporting teams, including
softball, hockey, volleyball and the AFL NT Umpires. I also love spending time
playing with my children.
My highlight from Round Table was meeting the other participants and attending the
meetings. This was also my first year of teaching. If you are thinking about applying
for Round Table, do it! You learn a lot about yourself and you will develop all sorts of
valuable skills along the way. It is a great spring board of motivation onto your next
life challenge.
Karlie James
Today I live in Gove with my partner Aaron and
enjoy raising my five year old son Jaydon, (whom
I carried whilst on the Round Table in 2007) and
my ten month old son Leon. I have changed
careers from legal into finance. I haven’t travelled
overseas yet, which is something I’ve put on my
“things to do before I turn 30” list. My partner and
I purchased a home in Darwin before moving to
Gove in 2012, which we are extremely excited
about.
I am still very passionate about issues regarding
youth, especially within the NT. I have been
active within the community since Round Table, and have been involved with Top
End NAIDOC as Chairperson and events coordinator, as well as a member of the
Youth Justice Advisory Committee and a parole officer mentoring young Indigenous
offenders.
42
I must admit I was a little sidetracked with expecting my son, but as far as Round
Table went the highlight was the meetings at Lake Bennett, and spending time with
fellow members working on the various projects. Round Table is definitely a fantastic
way to have a voice for young Territorians, meet new people, and have a lot of fun. If
you are interested, give it a go. It is a great experience!
Rosalind Beadle
I have been living in Warburton, a remote Aboriginal community in the Ngaanyatarra
Lands of Western Australia, for the last two years. I am working with a fantastic group
of local women who run a catering business. They organise school breakfast,
cooking and delivering meals for the elderly and also cater for a range of school and
community events. I am undertaking a PhD in young Aboriginal women’s health and
wellbeing and love living out in the Western Australian desert.
My highlight from the Youth Round Table was being given the opportunity to work
alongside such a wonderful and motivating group of young people from around the
Territory. I particularly enjoyed the chance to undertake a community project – trying
to understand how health and education services could be improved for young
Aboriginal mothers in Tennant Creek. Youth Round Table is a unique opportunity to
develop your team and communication skills, as well as to gain a greater
understanding of the way you as an individual can influence the betterment of your
community and provide advocacy to people in need.
Siana Cork
After graduating Year 12, I was a Rotary Exchange Student in Finland for a year.
Since then, I have focused on travelling, work, coming home to Australia, working
and saving to travel again. I have been to 22 countries so far, one of my favourite
experiences to date would be living in Mexico in 2011. At the end of 2011, I was
accepted into the New York Film Academy to study acting. I am currently applying for
grants and scholarships and if I am successful in finding funding, I will be moving to
New York. Meeting like-minded young people passionate about making a difference
in their community was the highlight for me in 2007.
My advice to anyone considering applying is DO IT! More importantly, make the most
of it if you are accepted. It is a rare opportunity to be surrounded by inspiring and
proactive youths, all who are not only hoping to make the NT a better place, but are
also willing to turn that hope into action.
43
2008
2008 saw another group of young people participate in the Round Table.
Amanda Ngalmi
Desmond Campbell
Gemma Benn
Kristian Goodacre
Amy Sherrin
Emily Holyoake
Jack Hose
Matthew Renshaw
Amy Smith
Felix Ho
Katharina Gerste
Pritika Desai
Chris Helmond
Gabrielle Morriss
Katie Chatto
Tessa Snowdon
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Amy Smith
Wow, over four years has passed since I
participated on the Round Table in 2008. So
much has changed in my life in this time. I am
now 30 years old and still living in Darwin. My
partner Adam and I have sold our unit and
bought a large four bedroom house complete
with a pool. I have changed jobs several times
going from the private sector back to NT
Government, and working in a few different
departments.
In 2009, I began working in the Office of
Women’s Policy and in 2011 I gained
permanency in my Project Officer position. In
2010 and 2011, I joined the Young Professionals
Network NT Executive Committee. This was a
great experience and I thoroughly enjoyed being
the Event Manager during this time, creating
opportunities for young professionals plus I
gained experience in volunteering and working on an Executive Committee.
The other major life changing event was the birth of my beautiful daughter, Madeline.
Madeline (Maddy) was born on the 10th of April 2011. The other big news for our
little family in 2012 was that we found out we were expecting again - but this time we
have been double blessed and had twin boys in January! Being a mother is the
hardest, challenging, yet most rewarding job ever, and I wouldn’t change it for the
world!!
I am still a mad scrapbooker, I don’t think I will ever stop taking photos (especially
now I have a cute cheeky little girl and two more adorable babies) and I am still
running my own scrapbooking business.
My highlight of the Round Table was meeting some inspirational and incredible
young people who are still friends today. It was also great learning some invaluable
skills. My advice for others who are thinking about applying for the Round Table is it
will give you some fantastic and valuable skills and experiences – so what are you
waiting for?
45
Desmond Campbell
Now at the age of 28, I have participated in some
of the most life changing opportunities
throughout my career, study and in the
community. In 2013, I had the opportunity to
manage a small team which worked with
Indigenous parents to build participation of
community in the education of their children.
This was a great experience, achieving some
great outcomes. I successfully completed my
Social Science Degree - Bachelor in Community
Management with Macquarie University Sydney,
I travelled to the beautiful Vanuatu with great
friends, learning about a new society rich in
culture and pride.
I participated in great conferences such as the Youth NT Conference where I was
delighted to be a key note speaker, speaking about successful young Indigenous
people doing great things in their individual areas in their communities - true
inspiration, true leaders. I saw a great group of young leaders involved in the
Foundation of Young Australians leadership program grow and achieve great things.
I mentored young Indigenous people in roles throughout the Red Cross such as
Chair of the Youth Action Committee, Board Member and National Youth Advisory
Committee. I accepted the opportunity and continue to participate in a steering group
to build a Volunteer Participating Strategy for Red Cross nationally. So like every
year, it was another huge year filled with great opportunities and achievements.
I can honestly say I may have not had the drive and passion to do such great work if I
didn't participate in the 2008 Round Table. Working with inspirational young men and
women doing unbelievable things is the motivation I continue to reach for at the
beginning of each opportunity that comes my way.
Felix Ho
I am currently working as a Paramedic in Darwin. Since the Round Table, I’ve been
fortunate to have worked and travelled domestically and abroad, the highlight of
which was working with the United Nations in 2010-11 in Dili, Timor-Leste. However,
I have now resettled back in Darwin and I am enjoying the unique challenges of the
Territory and the privilege of living in a diverse city. My highlight from the Round
Table was meeting fantastic young Territorians from all walks of life and working on a
project of mutual interest. It was great chatting, connecting and socialising with the
other Round Tablers, some of which are still great friends. Definitely give Round
Table a go! Take the opportunity to get out there and use this unique opportunity to
explore the Territory, meet other young people, and interact with different
communities. Open your mind to other ideas and ways of thinking! Most importantly,
give it a shot, you are not too young nor too inexperienced!
46
Gabrielle Morris
My brother recently informed me that I am a terrible
story-teller. That I drag on like the build-up in the wet
season but without the satisfying relief of rain at the
end. So on that note, I will try to be succinct.
At the (not so) ripe age of 22, I am in my final year
studying Law and International Relations at Bond
University on a Vice Chancellor Scholarship.
After finishing on the Round Table and graduating
from Kormilda College in 2008, I took a gap year
before commencing my degree. This memorable
year involved travelling through Europe as the
Australian Ambassador to The Hague International
Model United Nations before returning to Darwin to
work for The Exodus Foundation.
Working with Exodus was an exciting experience. The program involved teaching the
‘Making Up Lost Time in Literacy’ program to urban Indigenous students - one of my
most rewarding experiences to date. In the evenings, I tutored boarding students at
St Johns College. This work reminded me how many talented young students there
are in the Territory, and how motivated they are to excel and achieve great results.
Reflecting back on my year on the Round Table I am flooded with great memories.
My top three highlights include the dance off with Jack Hose at Lake Bennett; team
Uber’s rap at one of the weekend away meetings; and the team building exercises
(funny times!). Meeting an inspiring bunch of diverse and talented young people that
are passionate about improving the channels of communication between the young
people of the NT and the government was also unforgettable.
If you are thinking of applying to the Round Table, don’t hesitate or question whether
you’re the candidate they’re after. Only a diverse council can effectively canvas the
varied views of youth in the Territory.
Good Luck!
47
Gemma Benn
Where do I start, so much as happened since I
participated on the Round Table in 2008.
In 2009, I commenced working in the OYA after I
successfully won the National Youth Week
Coordinator Position. In 2011 I won the position
of Senior Policy Officer and I’m tasked with
working on the implementation of the NT
Government Youth Policy. Currently I am the
Acting Manager and enjoying what this role
entails.
I love working in the youth sector and every day I
am thankful for the many opportunities that have
opened doors along the way.
On the home front I am building Noah’s Ark in my
backyard! Not really, but I feel that with the
amount of pets my partner and I have at the moment, that the number and variety will
only increase. We have two dogs, one cat and millions of fish.
Apart from that I’ve travelled a bit through South East Asia, Hawaii and Vanuatu. In
2013 I’m looking forward to a few more overseas adventures.
The experience I gained from
participating on Round Table and
the connections I made with others
really was a highlight for me. It’s a
12 month journey you share with
16 diverse personalities. I am
grateful that I met so many
awesome people, many of whom I
still keep in touch with.
“You can gain as much as you want
from the experience based on the time
that you are willing to commit towards
the Round Table.”
Gemma Benn, 2008
Round Table can provide you with
an experience that will lead you down many diverse pathways. As a member you are
given the opportunity to communicate directly with the Minister on behalf of other
young Territorians. You can gain as much as you want from the experience based on
the time that you are willing to commit towards the Round Table.
Katharina Gerste
I am 26 years old and still living in Darwin. Since finishing Round Table, I was runner
up in the 2009 NT Training Awards for the ‘Trainee of the Year’ category and have
moved from working in the Vocational Education and Training sector to now working
on my career in marketing. I am now working at Charles Darwin University in digital
marketing and am hoping to start my higher education studies in the field. I headed
back home to Germany in June 2011, which was an amazing experience.
48
I visited places that I had not been to before, even though I had lived there for 11
years prior to moving. Since 2008, I’ve also started up soccer again, playing for
Darwin Olympic, after having a five year break from the sport. I’m enjoying it
immensely and will be travelling to Cairns for the second time in two years with our
club for the Stratford Cup carnival.
My highlights from Round Table included meeting amazing people and maintaining
those friendships after Round Table concluded, being part of something that matters,
and having the opportunity to talk to people that have the power to make a difference
in our lives. My advice to others is to be yourself and make sure that the project you
are involved in during Round Table is something that you are really passionate
about. Passion is a driver for motivation and wanting to succeed in everything you
do. This is extremely important for your project and in helping you stay on track.
Kristian Goodacre
Life after Round Table is never the same… and I mean that in a good way of course!
I am 27 years old, and currently living in Maroochydore, Queensland. I was
previously based in Redfern flying between Brisbane (Jagera/Turrbal Nations), Coffs
Harbour (Gumbayngirr Nation) and Sydney City (Eora Nation) supporting an amazing
crew of young leaders to grow with the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience
(AIME) at local universities and high schools. Prior to moving back south, I was
working with children and young people in urban, rural and remote areas of the
Territory to create safer communities for kids to grow up in. Some of the projects I
was involved with included National Child Protection Week, Children’s Week and the
Moodditj Program in Maningrida. The final challenge I faced before moving back to
Sydney was co-chairing the Youth Delegate Program Committee for the Asia Pacific
Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect (APCCAN09) in Perth, Western Australia.
These days when I’m not working with inspiring young people, you will find me giving
endurance mountain bike racing a crack or surfing/spear fishing at one of Sydney’s
beaches with my mates. Being back on home turf close to my family and friends
hasn’t stopped me visiting the Territory to go bush with my Round Table mates, and
grabbing a feed at Mindil, Parap or Nightcliff markets. You can’t beat Darwin in the
dry season! On the horizon I’m looking at utilising my Master’s Degree in the field of
organisational coaching and management and looking into an overseas placement
with AusAid.
During my time in the Territory, I listened and learnt from an array of inspiring people,
all of whom have made a profound impact on my life and I will forever be grateful for
having had the privilege of growing up in their presence. Seeing the immediate and
longer term ripple effect our Round Table projects have had on the young people and
their communities is definitely a highlight. There is not much that compares to
standing on top of the Humpty Doo half-pipe with your Round Table team, looking out
over a youth-led rural rock festival of skating, spray painting, slamming bands and
sizzling snags, knowing that you had a hand in pulling it all together and potentially
encouraging others to do the same down the track.
49
My advice for potential Round Table members is step up! Life is too short to shy
away from opportunities that will have a lasting, positive impact on you, younger
generations and on our world. While you are changing the world on the Round Table,
have FUN doing it!
Pritika Desai
I am 20 years old, and I have just graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Zoology
from Melbourne University. I still continue my community work as an ambassador
with the Make Poverty History road trip campaign, a college community service
representative and a humanitarian worker. In 2012 I did conservation work in Africa.
The skills I learnt from Round Table have been important in almost everything I do in
life, not only in my community work but also in my job and university. It shaped who I
was during and after Year 12, some of the most significant years of my life. The
highlight of my year on the Round Table was bringing everything together with our
projects and presenting it.
Receiving the bound copy of our project made me proud of what we had all achieved.
It was a fun, overwhelming and sometimes difficult year, but the end result was totally
worth it. The Round Table is a great opportunity and incredible experience. You will
make friends for life, achieve something very few can say they have achieved and
learn skills that can be used throughout your life.
Tessa Snowdon
I am living in Melbourne, and currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (International
Studies) at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. I moved here from Alice
Springs at the start of 2011 to undertake university studies. I hope to eventually work
either in psychology or primary education. My highlight from the year I participated on
the Round Table was meeting new people, and being in an environment full of likeminded youth who all have opinions relevant to different political issues that were
currently affecting their communities. The Round Table is such a great experience.
The only advice I would look to give other people is to use the help and other
assistance that is provided, it makes the year a lot easier.
50
2009
In 2009, the 16 Round Table participants were:
Cindy Schultz
Felicity Wardle
Larnie McClintock
Rebekah Raymond
Craig Pettifor
Honeylyn Lisson
Luke Phillips
Robert Pullino
Elise Moo
Jessica Cunningham
Nicole Shotton
Sharah Lyons
Ethan Woods-Alum
Justin Heim
Rebecca Healy
Steven Pedlar
51
Craig Pettifor
I am 19 years old, and a student studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the
University of New England, Armidale. My highlight from the year on the Round Table
was meeting other like-minded people. I would definitely recommend Round Table
for anyone interested in making a difference!
Elise Clare Moo
I have recently moved from Darwin to
Sydney to study a Bachelor of
International Studies, majoring in
International
Relations,
at
the
University of New South Wales.
After completing Year 12, I took a gap
year and worked full-time as an
administration assistant at a privately
owned registered training organisation
in Darwin. During this time, I also
completed a Certificate III in Business
Administration. Working in my gap year, although invaluable in many ways, also
confirmed my desire to go to university to be able to pursue a career that I am
passionate about, rather than working in a job purely as a means of generating
income.
Working enabled me to save enough money to go on five holidays in 2011 with family
and friends, which was my main aim in taking a year off. Although this meant I didn’t
have as much money saved for university as I would have liked, I had a lot of great
experiences including attending a music festival in Queensland with friends, going to
the New Year’s Eve full moon party in Thailand and achieving my open-water scuba
diving license.
My highlight from the 2009 Round Table was meeting a variety of like-minded people
and sharing ideas about topical issues that affected young people in our
communities. I also enjoyed learning about how to conduct a research project and
writing up subsequent finding in report format. Being able to pursue an issue was
important to me personally and was also a great experience. My tip for others
considering applying for the Round Table is to read past project reports before
applying. Design a project scope in a way that makes achieving goals realistic.
Starting early is key to this. Learning how to utilise the skills of individual team
members as well as the group as a whole is valuable and in this sense. The project
coordinators need to learn how to manage their team. This includes delegating tasks,
making sure people meet their deadlines and mediating any issues that may arise.
They should also remember to access the resources provided by the OYA.
52
Ethan Woods-Alum
I am 19 years old and currently still living in Katherine. I studied at Katherine High
School. I then worked there as a tutor, worked at the Coffee Club, Radio Station
8KTR and everywhere in between. Everything was a highlight for me on the Round
Table in 2009, and my advice for others who wish to get involved is just get in!
Felicity Wardle
I am 27 years old and the director of Create Happiness
Pty Ltd. Since my work on the Round Table, I have
continued to develop my business, expanding from a
market stall to a successful retail shop in the city. We
now employ six passionate staff and I have seen our
business grow from strength to strength. In this growth, I
have developed my strong passion for fighting for the
rights of people to utilise the benefit from plants.
I am excited to work in a field that challenges these
restrictions, and fights for the rights of individuals – and
especially our future generations – to use plants for their
benefit. Daily in my business I share my knowledge and
interest in plants and encourage people to think critically about our current plant and
drug laws.
Participating in the Round Table has provided me with opportunities to learn more
about our political system, its strengths and weaknesses. Overall I found the
experience inspiring and enriching. Some highlights for me were feeding into the
2030 Territory policy vision, and contributing to the development of policies relating to
young people and their rights and interests. I’d like to see a return to short and long
term, evidence based policies and less politicking. I hope young people in the
Territory stay engaged in politics and participate more fully.
In the words of Vera Nazarian “a choir is made up of many voices, including yours
and mine. If one by one we all go silent then all that will be left are the soloists. Don’t
let a loud few determine the nature of the sound. It makes for poor harmony and
diminishes the song.” So speak up and speak your truths.
53
Honeylyn Lisson
I was a member of the Round Table when I was
16 and in Year 11 at Casuarina Senior College. I
have now graduated and am nearing the end of
my Gap Year. I have been heavily involved in a
number of Youth Organisations since the Round
Table including with groups such as the United
Nations Youth Australia, City of Darwin’s Youth
Advisory Group, the Oaktree Foundation, World
Vision, the Red Cross, and as the president of my
school’s student representative council. I was also
lucky enough to win the Pride of Australia Award
and the Young Achiever Award in the Youth
Leadership category. Since graduating, I have
stayed involved with many of these groups and
have been working full time as a tutor at
Casuarina Senior College (I just couldn’t leave). I have also spent time travelling in
Europe, Asia and will soon be going to Canada and America. Next year I will begin
completing an Arts Degree at Monash University in Melbourne and I can’t wait.
Determining my highlight from the year is really hard! It was great meeting all of the
other Round Table members – some of whom I’m still in contact with – and being
able to participate in so many interesting discussions and activities. Looking back, I
can’t believe how privileged I was to be able to talk directly to politicians and other
high powered individuals as well as to receive amazing training and hear from
experts in a range of fields.
For those thinking about applying for
Round Table – definitely give it a go!
“Looking back, I can’t believe how
It’s a great opportunity and if you
privileged I was to be able to talk
really put in a lot of effort you can do
directly to politicians…”
so, so much. Also remember that
Honeylyn Lisson, 2009
time will go super quickly so plan out
what you want to try and achieve as
early as you can (have a good think
about it even before your first face-to-face meeting so you have something to start
discussing straight away). And don’t forget to ask for help when you need it, pursue a
project you’re TRULY passionate about and have fun doing it!
Justin Heim
I am currently studying my Bachelor of Nursing Science at the Townsville Campus of
James Cook University. I moved here at the start of the year, and have nearly
completed my first year of formal education. I currently participate in groups such as
the Society of Manga Anime and Gaming, as well as practicing literature and physical
and digital art.
54
During the year I took part in the Round Table, I learnt a great deal about managing
deadlines, completing applications and working in a team to achieve a positive result.
The coupling of this experience and with my final year of high-school allowed me to
better myself as a person in terms of academic achievement, personal growth and
many other areas.
My advice to others considering applying is to simply apply for the Round Table. It
doesn’t matter who you are, as long as you want to make the community around you
a better place, then you can achieve this at the Round Table. If you don’t apply, you
have no chance at all of being involved. But if you do, even the act of applying can
teach you about how you could better apply yourself to things in the future.
Larnie Batten (nee McClintock)
The several years that have now passed since I
was on the Round Table have been action
packed, exciting and kind of a blur. 2009 was a
great year for me, starting on the Round Table,
buying a unit in the city with my partner, I also
started the Treasury Finance Officer in Training
Graduate Program, and I applied for and was
given the position of National Youth Week (NYW)
Young Member for the NT in 2010 and 2011.
The NYW Young Member position was an
incredible learning experience. In this role I was
involved in the planning and promotion of NYW
across the Territory, where I developed my public
speaking skills by attending so many fantastic
events, including the Young Achiever Awards,
where I made a speech to launch Youth Week.
2011 was another great year for me, I was
promoted in my position at Treasury, gained many skills and developed relationships
with the Australian Government working alongside them to help plan the 2011
Census. I travelled to New Zealand where my partner of seven years proposed. In
2011, my time as Young Member for NYW finished, and I was very sad to see it go.
However, when the NYW Coordinator for the OYA was promoted and the position
was open for applications I could not hesitate and had to apply. Fortunately, I was
employed in the Project Officer/NYW Coordinator Position, within the OYA, and have
enjoyed every moment of working in a fun, supportive and dedicated office since. I
was so excited to be working on my first NYW in April 2012 and looking forward to
my second in April 2013.
In August 2012, I enjoyed a three week break travelling the United States with my
partner and some friends, we went to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Orlando,
Las Vegas and New York. New York (with Disneyworld coming a close second) was
by far my favourite place and I hope to go back there soon. In February 2013, my
partner and I married in front of our friends and family in Adelaide.
55
We had the most perfect day and felt so blessed. We then experienced an amazing
honeymoon in the Maldives- absolute paradise!
Since Round Table I have felt so lucky to be involved with various youth projects, and
the latest is called Y-change, a youth project aiming to tackle youth binge drinking in
the Territory through social media. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that the Territory
provides so many amazing opportunities for young people if they are motivated
enough to get involved. Round Table was not only a great experience, but also a
great stepping stone to many other youth activities I’ve since been involved in.
My highlights from Round Table were definitely meeting all the other inspiring young
people and being elected as Vice-Chair by my peers. There were also so many
valuable skills that we gained by participating in the Round Table. I would definitely
recommend the Round Table to all young people who wish to make a difference in
their community.
Luke Phillips
As I write this I am at Kapooka, which is the initial training facility for the Australian
Army, where I am joining the infantry. My greatest achievement since being on the
Round Table is my family, my wife and two boys which make me who I am.
At 27, I have had many experiences both good and bad and I have learned from
each and every one of them. When I have finished my training, I hope to be posted
back home to Darwin. I also love sport, specifically Rugby! Go Wallabies!!
My highlights from the Round Table was meeting everyone involved in 2009, and
presenting my project at Parliament House. My advice for anyone considering
applying for the Round Table is to network and to get to know your community.
Nicole Shotton
It’s been a few years since I was part of the Round Table and a lot has changed for
me. I am currently living in Adelaide, South Australia and I am studying a Bachelor of
Journalism and Communications at the University of South Australia. Moving almost
4,000 kilometres from a remote cattle station in the Territory to living in a city centre
with a much colder climate is definitely what I would count as a big change. After
graduating high school at the end of 2010, I was lucky enough to have the chance to
travel to Cambodia and be a part of the Rotary Exchange Program. Assisting in
humanitarian activities such as constructing huts, creating health care packages and
aiding the local university has been a life changing experience for me, and one which
I will never forget.
I am greatly enjoying my university life and hope by the end of 2015 I will head out in
the big wide world as a qualified journalist with plans to travel the globe, help others
and follow my dreams.
56
To name one highlight I experienced from the 2009 Round Table would be almost
impossible, there were so many! Meeting a really great bunch of young people and
realising what we could achieve together was an absolute amazing feeling. If you
have passion to help people, assist in your (or in my case, wider) community then
apply to be a part of the Round Table! The worst that can happen is being short
listed, and if that’s the case, try again next year!
Rebekah Raymond
I am currently in my second year of studying a Bachelor
of Science/Bachelor of Arts combined degree at the
University of Sydney. I live on-campus at St John’s
College where I began as a freshman last year. Studying
at the University of Sydney is a dream come true; in
2009 I first visited the University and fell in love with the
campus and what the University had to offer. I enjoy
studying towards the majors of neuroscience and history
for my respective science and art degrees, as well as
being involved in extracurricular activities. I am an
Indigenous Student Ambassador for the University and
am also an Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience
(AIME) mentor for the second year. I hope to encourage
more Indigenous students to consider university studies and to attend the University
of Sydney through both of these commitments. I love living and studying in Sydney,
even though I do get homesick for Darwin and return home to the Territory during
university holidays.
The highlight of being a part of the 2009 Round Table was when we gave a youth
perspective on initiatives and Legislation, which concerned teen sexual health. The
youth views and concerns we voiced were otherwise not considered by the Territory
Government and were taken into account and led to changed policies. The Round
Table was such a rewarding experience and I encourage any young person in the NT
who wants to make a difference or wants to be heard to apply.
57
2010
The 2010 Round Table members consisted of 16 new young members.
Aaron Dowling
Dimity Jessup
Hannah Woerle
Lauren Moss
Amelia Kunoth-Monks Elspeth Blunt
Joshua May
Rebecca Rowberry
Aroha Jennings
Eun Ju Kim-Baker
Kelvia-Lee Johnson
Sephyr Crook
Celeste Brand
Gavin Henderson
Kylie-Maree Sambo
Skye Clayton
58
Aaron Dowling
I currently am 26 years old and live in Darwin. Firstly, I
have to say that it was a great experience undertaking
the Round Table, and it is excellent to see that there are
so many young people who are enthusiastic about the
future of young people. It is especially great that the NT
Government is supporting this opportunity for youth.
Since leaving the Round Table I have gained a
permanent job with the Department of Infrastructure. In
this role I take on various tasks, some out in the field
inspecting roads, bridges and construction sites and
some undertaking a fair bit of administrative work in the
office.
In 2006, I began studying for my Certificate II in Business
at Charles Darwin University (CDU), for which I won the highest achiever award. I
continued on to do a Certificate III in Business with CDU. I was given a great
opportunity about half way through the first semester of an apprenticeship with the
Department of Education and Training, for a Certificate III in Business. With the skills
I had obtained I managed to gain a position with the Department of Health within the
NT Government, working in Records Management. After one year of working in the
department I decided to broaden my career prospects and applied for, and
successfully obtained, a traineeship with the Department of Infrastructure, where I
am on a rotating program, and hope to get some exposure to design.
There were a lot of highlights for me from
the Round Table but mainly it was a lot of
fun. There were a lot of discussions
“It was good to see everyone
around the topics and concerns for youth,
having input into the things
and it was good to see everyone having
they thought would change the
input into the things they thought would
lives of young people for the
change the lives of young people for the
better!” Aaron Dowling, 2010
better. My advice for others thinking of
applying for Round Table is to do the
best you can and go for it. If there is
anything you wish to raise, let it be known to the Round Table and it could lead to
action. Make sure that you fully understand your topic first so that you are ready to
put your views across to the Round Table.
Aroha Jennings
I am currently 26 years old, living in Darwin and loving life! I am now working with
East Arnhem Shire Council as the Public Relations Coordinator. I love my job, and
the best thing about my job is working with a fantastic crew of people in communities
and having the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a positive impact to the
standards of life in remote communities.
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I am studying at Charles Darwin University, as an external student completing a
Bachelor of Commerce specialising in Marketing.
My highlight from my year on the Round Table in 2010 was being able to work with
and learn from 15 other passionate youth.
My advice for others who wish to apply for the Round Table is the more you put your
hand up and ‘get involved’ with the Round Table initiatives and projects, the more
you will get back.
Often people apply to be on the Round Table because it looks good on your CV, and
let’s face it…It looks damn good on your CV! That’s all well and good, but you also
need to be passionate about what you are doing at the same time.
You will benefit greatly from the people you meet, the contacts you make, the
projects and inspiring youth initiatives you work on, while also experiencing
significant growth as a person. You will have endless of opportunities to work with
and meet hundreds of people.
Celeste Brand
Since 2010, I have been living in Alice Springs. I recently studied a Certificate III in
Community Services which assisted me with my job. This year, following advice from
peers and continuing on from last year’s study, I am now studying a Bachelor of
Social Work. Just recently, I have moved in with my family and am renting out my
property. I am still playing netball on Saturdays and also play social netball and touch
football with colleagues from work. In 2011, I travelled to Bali where I spent 10 days, I
would like to go back and stay in Ubud.
My highlight of the Round Table was meeting with Ministers, government
representatives, and with Non-Government Organisations. The presenters were
appropriate and communicated well with the youth. Although I don’t stay in touch with
many members from 2010, I had a great time and learned something from everyone.
My advice to others considering applying to the Round Table is to really think about
your project and whether it is something you are passionate about. Time is of the
essence!
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Dimity Jessup
I am currently 18 years old and a student whilst also
working part-time. A year after Round Table, I wish I had
never left, but I guess that leaving school after Year 12
and trying to find my feet was one of my main priorities.
Now that I have a part-time job and only one year of
University to complete, I think it’s time to reapply and
express my views on the community and the world with
a new outlook and great experience.
My highlights of working on the Round Table was that I
met other amazing and inspiring young people who
share similar and different views, who are working
together to improve and promote youth and youth issues
in the community. These young people are achieving this with members of the
Northern Territory Parliament and other organisations at a grass roots level.
“Get out there and have a
go!” Dimity Jessup, 2010
I advise everyone to have a go and get out
there. Express your views and express
yourself in your own way. Every person
creates their own world and every little action
can change the world.
Elspeth Blunt
I am currently 26 years old, living in Roeburn, WA for the past year. I work with Big
hART on the Yijala Yala project, working with the community to produce a theatre
piece, music CDs and digital media like the NEOMAD interactive comic iPad app.
Before that I lived in Alice Springs for about four years, where I managed community
arts projects with young people and did a few flashmobs and a bit of clowning on the
side. With fellow Round Table member Gavin Henderson, we formed the Harmony
Crew in 2010 to organise events and advocate for other young people in Alice
Springs. I’m a graduate of Charles Sturt University’s Theatre/Media course and I’ve
studied theatre for community cultural development in Makhampom Living Theatre in
Thailand and with Headlines Theatre in Canada.
My highlight from my year on the Round Table was meeting motivated and amazingly
talented people who continue to inspire me with the work they’re doing in their
communities and overseas.
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Hannah Woerle
I am 20 years old and living in Darwin, having just finished
my second and final year of involvement with the Round
Table in 2010 and 2011. I am completing my Bachelor of
Biomedical Science at Charles Darwin University.
I am still involved with my Round Table project with
Lauren Moss and will be continuing with the project in the
coming years. Making the amazing progress we did in our
project and seeing changes happen was the most
amazing part of my involvement with the Round Table,
and was what I joined the team for.
My advice for others thinking of applying for the Round
Table is just go for it! Throw yourself into the team and be
involved because the more you put in, the more you get out and what you get out is
amazing.
Joshua May
I am currently living at Bond University on the Gold Coast, having been awarded a
scholarship to study a double degree of Law and International Relations. I’m an avid
singer and actor, and I am passionate about all things theatre related. In the coming
years, I hope to visit Europe, and maybe even study there. One day I hope to work
for the United Nations in Paris and finally perfect my French!
The presentation at the end of the year was definitely a highlight for me. The
attending members were very interested to hear what I had to say about arts and
youth, to the point that they put me in contact with people to take my project further.
The best moment came two months later, when I was notified that my project had
been picked up by the City of Darwin and that it was underway!
Go for it! The Round Table is one of
the best experiences I’ve ever had. Be
honest and open in your application,
making sure that you represent
something that you’re passionate
about. Don’t be afraid to speak your
mind and voice your concerns, as the
most powerful thing you can do is
stand up and be counted for your
opinions.
“The best moment came when I
was notified that my project had
been picked up by the City of
Darwin, and that it was
underway!”
Joshua May, 2010
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Lauren Moss
2011 was a crazy year! I spoke in front of the
Governor General at the Youth Health Conference in
Sydney and even watched US President Barack
Obama deliver a speech. I completed a Bachelor of
Business Studies and have completed the Round
Table for another (and my final) year.
I have taken on a new role that allows me to gain
more experience in my areas of study and to be more
involved with youth engagement. I am also a Youth
Ambassador for www.ReachOut.com and in
November 2011 I graduated from their Reporter
program, creating content for the website. I am a
member of the headspace Youth National Reference
Group, representing headspace Top End – I’ve loved
every minute of each role. At the end of 2011 I was selected for the Australian Youth
Forum Steering Committee and attended my first meeting in February. In other
exciting news, I became a first home owner here in the Territory, definitely a huge
achievement. I guess you can say I have started a little family unit because I now
have a little kitten/baby, Munchkin, who I spend a lot of time cooing over. I am also
beginning to reclaim some of my other loves... taking photographs, blogging and
reading insanely good books.
There were so many highlights over 2010 and 2011; some of my most prominent
included building friendships with amazing, inspiring young people, who share the
same love for their community and the attitude that we can all make a positive
difference. However, I think that my biggest highlight has also been what I would say
is one of my proudest moments. Hannah and I, as a part of the Skin Deep Project,
collaborated with Headspace Top End last year to run the forum ‘Happy, Healthy and
Resilient: Exploring options for young Territorians with an eating disorder’, bringing
together professionals, young people and family members to address what works
and what needs to be done as a community. It was a momentous occasion, where I
truly felt that the hard work we had been doing was making a difference. If you are
thinking of applying for Round Table (which you should), be open to all of the
experiences and opportunities that come your way and be prepared to grow.
Remember that it is one of those opportunities in life where you get as much out of it
as you put in.
Sephyr Crook
I am currently 18 years old and studying law. To know I can help others drives me to
study and work harder than ever before. I am also currently employed with a church
and love working as I see each and every day as a new opportunity to share with
someone the hope I have in Jesus Christ. It is a privilege to work with those in need,
to link them with other support services and generally lend a hand.
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Having been on the Round Table in 2010 and other community organisations, I now
find myself forever busy with different initiatives to help young people and those in
need. My highlight from the Round Table was seeing other young people with a
passion improve the lives of others.
My advice to others thinking of applying for Round Table is as you look into the real
state of things through networks in the Round Table and perhaps find that the picture
is somewhat dismal, do not lose hope. You are tackling big matters, but still have fun
and enjoy the company of fellow members.
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2011
The 2011 Round Table consisted of 16 members with three members returning for a
second term.
Alpha Capaque
Dion Dodd
Hannah Woerle
Steven Satour
Amanda Francis
Eleanor Dixon
Lauren Moss
Tobi Martins
Bruno Wilson
Emily Osborne
Lianna Georges
Tylee Wirth
Connor Reid
Gavin Henderson
Samuel McIver
Zoe Owens
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Alpha Capaque
I am currently working at the NT Treasury while studying
a Bachelor of Accounting/Bachelor of Laws at Charles
Darwin University. I have also just started to be involved
with Tectonic Youth Radio, which is a community youth
radio show that broadcasts out of Radio Larrakia in
Darwin. I have also become a member of Multicultural
Youth NT (MyNT).
There are many highlights for me during my time on the
Round Table. Representing the Round Table at the
Young Women’s Festival working group committee was
definitely one. I got to be actively involved with the
planning and organising of a great event that celebrates
being a woman and empowers the young women of Darwin. I had the chance to work
with people who are deeply passionate about what they do and who work to make
ideas come true. This day was a lot of fun. I was privileged to be invited to sit on the
discussion panel with three other young ladies, which I consider to be of great
inspiration for their genuine concern, hard work, and leadership skills.
Another highlight was when we participated in the Relay for Life, which is a Cancer
Council initiative. The Round Table spent weeks raising funds and I spent the night
with my fellow “Knights” relaying at the Gardens Oval. The event was so much fun
and it was also a chance to remember those whom we have lost to cancer. At the
same time, we still got to celebrate life and just be together, fighting for a worthy
cause with my fellow members and friends. It was just an inspiring scene for me, to
see everyone get involved and be so united. Being invited to see US President
Barack Obama in person during his short visit at the RAAF Base is also something I
will never forget. I almost cried with excitement when I received the news.
Of course, the weekend meetings with the whole Round Table are moments that I
will always cherish. These were a bunch of people, mostly strangers to each other,
from different backgrounds with different stories. I met leaders, innovators, and
inspirational people. But most of all, I met friends. Every meeting I learnt something
new about each of them and I will never forget their stories and the lengths they were
willing to go through to make changes in the community. My advice to others thinking
of applying for the Round Table is to submit your applications NOW. It is worth it!
Don’t let the thought of writing a report or presenting it to the public freak you out.
There will be many who will help and support you. It has been one of the most
worthwhile things I have done in my life, and submitting my application was one of
the best decisions I have made. It has been an amazing journey and I learned lots.
Once you are in the crew, don’t forget to talk about your ideas (this is the place to talk
about things even though you may think no one wants to listen). Be involved and
take in as much as possible. After the term, you will have a chance to look back and
just be amazed to see how much you have grown as an individual.
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Connor Reid
In 2011 I was in the last week of Year 12 exams coming
up while I was trying to get my final report done for
Round Table. I am also working two days a week. I am
into motorbikes where I compete in enduros. In 2011, I
received an award for the School Based Apprentice of
the Year and I travelled to the National Training Awards
in November.
My highlight from the Round Table was gaining more
skills with working with people, having a voice for Young
Territorians, gaining a better understanding of politics and
understanding what’s happening in my community.
If you apply for the Round Table, make the most of it. It is
a great experience and a great way to help make a
positive impact on the community.
Dion Dodd
I have lived in Darwin for the past 11 years. I moved
here when I was 15 and have had more opportunities
than I think I could have anywhere else!
The interaction with the other members is definitely my
highlight of the Round Table. Meeting these amazing
people made it one of the most special years of my life.
The drive, intelligence and passion of the people that I
met, have inspired me to want to be and do more, not
just for myself but for the community.
My advice
for those
who wish
to apply for Round Table is to just do it!
It is an opportunity of a lifetime. You will
become one of a select few, chosen to
represent your community and your
peers. I believe that being yourself and
having a passion to make changes for
youth issues is exactly what you need
to be a part of the Round Table.
“It’s an opportunity of a lifetime.
You’ll become one of a select few
chosen to represent your
community and your peers.”
Dion Dodd, 2011
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Lianna Georges
I am 24 years old and I currently live in Darwin and work for
Colliers International, as a market research analyst. I love my
job and I get to work with a lot of fantastic people. I completed
a Bachelor of Communications at Charles Darwin University
and I am now completing a certificate in Residential Drafting. I
find that Darwin really gives young people a lot of opportunity
to learn.
My highlight from participating on Round Table was attending the Mission Australia
Urban Quest, where we watched inspiring young kids perform a fabulous music
show.
The Round Table is a wonderful program to apply for and gives you a great
opportunity to meet other people of similar mind frames.
Tobi Martins
I am 17 years old and it hasn’t been that long since I left
the Round Table, so not much has changed, though I am
always looking forward to the future and the challenges
(well it depends on how you look at it) that it will bring.
Maybe I will take up playing the guitar seriously... There
is just so much to do!
I would have to say that the best part of Round Table was
towards the end. Seeing the work the Round Table had
put together was very impressive. It showed how much
passion and effort everyone had put into it. That sounds a
bit cliché, but it is seriously true. My advice for others considering applying for Round
Table is to give it all you have got. It seems daunting at first, but trust me, it is fun and
worthwhile. Make sure you use all of the opportunities that you are given to represent
at the Round Table. Some of them will be really interesting!
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Tylee Wirth
I am currently living in Katherine, where I own my own
home and am kept very busy with my beautiful five year
old daughter.
I enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of the Territory, and fishing
and camping keep me occupied in my free time. I am in
my final year of a Bachelor of Behavioural Science
(Psychology) Degree, which I am looking forward to
completing next year. I am looking forward to honors
and registration. I have completed a Cert IV in
Correctional Practice and have almost completed Cert
IV in Alcohol and Other Drug Services.
I have been fortunate enough to have worked in the
Correctional and Child Protection fields within the
Katherine Region. I have moved from the mandatory field, and I am currently working
on the Katherine Regional Aboriginal Health and Related Services (KRAHRS)
Healing Pathways Project.
I enjoy travelling in South East Asia, but most of all I love camping under the stars
and watching my daughter fish (trying to catch Barramundi bigger than her!). The
Katherine lifestyle really works for me and my family.
“Having the opportunity to
tell people what you think is
an amazing development
and learning curve.”
Tylee Wirth, 2011
The highlight for me on the Round Table
would have to be my project presentation. To
have Ministers and very important members of
the NT Government not only listen, but really
care about what I have to say was amazing.
My advice to others who wish to apply for the
Round Table is just go for it! I really had no
idea what I was going to experience, but I
promise that you will be pleasantly surprised!
Having the opportunity to tell people what you think is an amazing development and
learning curve.
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Zoe Owens
I am 17 years old, and have just finished Year 11. I am
taking Chemistry, History, Legal Studies, Maths Studies and
English Studies, and I have obtained a Certificate I and II in
Rural Operations. In 2011, I travelled to Paris for a school
trip and loved the whole experience. In 2010, I participated
in a student exchange with a Japanese school. I was
nominated for the 2012 Young Achiever Awards in the Youth
Leadership category. I am a huge reader, and I love to hear
other people’s stories. I also enjoy listening to music,
especially music with a message.
The highlight from my year was definitely the people I met
on the Round Table, who are all so full of passion. My advice for others thinking of
applying for the Round Table is do not be afraid to apply and speak up. You meet
like-minded, supportive people, and get to have an impact on issues that youth are
affected by.
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2012
The 2012 Round Table consisted of 16 members with two members returning for a
second term.
Alvin Marrpindiwuy
Hamish Harty
Joseph Smith
Rona Glynn-McDonald
Dimity Jessup
Isobel Cammarano
Karina Files
Russell Burns
Emily Osborne
Jacinta Kay
Mark Munnich
Shalira Hazelbane
Georgia Barlow
Jessica Cullen
Rochelle Cabry
Tylee Wirth
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Emily Osborne
My name is Emily Osborne and I am currently moving to
Adelaide from Gove to commence a double degree in
Disability Teaching. I live in Gove with my family of six,
helping my parents with their gardening business and
looking after my three sisters, my oldest having a rare
neurological disorder called Rett Syndrome. As Gove is a
remote town in North East Arnhem Land, there are not
very many recreational facilities, leading us to spend our
spare time fishing, camping, hunting, 4x4ing and
swimming. After graduating from High School in 2011, I
visited New Zealand for a holiday with a friend, meeting
some amazing people and fuelling the desire to travel to Europe in the coming years.
In 2011, I was a member of the Round Table and in 2012 I was elected as the Chair
of the Round Table, with my community based project focusing on Youth Suicide in
the NT. In 2011, I was lucky enough to win the Pride of Australia Medal in the Young
Leader Category for the NT, while also being School Captain for my school,
Nhulunbuy High. I was also the NT Representative for the Australian National Young
Carers Action Team (ANYCAT) for three years (2009-2012), due to caring for my
older sister and my involvement with young carer advocacy in Gove.
The highlight for me from the Round Table was definitely completing my community
based project after two years and successfully holding a community Suicide
Prevention Day in my town of Gove. This prevention day was a year in the making
and is one of my proudest accomplishments to date. Being a small town, a death in
the community deeply affects the passionate people of Gove and my contribution to
those affected by suicide will not heal their losses, but hopefully will help prevent
future suicides in the Territory.
If the Round Table feels like the PERFECT thing for you, but you are unsure whether
you want to step out of your comfort zone, don’t fear! The staff at OYA will guide you
every step of the way, the other Round Table members will be there to support you
no matter what, and past Round Table members have been there and know that it is
a once in a lifetime opportunity. You are ALL amazing and you are the only person
who can tap your potential.
Isobel Cammarano
At the moment I am concentrating on successfully
completing Year 11 and 12 at Casuarina Senior College. I
am also continuing with my dancing by still doing ballet,
rumba and yoga. I also hope to become a qualified rumba
instructor when I go to Melbourne during March. I have
also just finished a block of six Dance and Movement
Workshops for youth with disabilities (particularly Down
Syndrome) run in conjunction with the Down Syndrome
Association NT over the school holidays.
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These workshops were a continuation of my Round Table project and were once or
twice a week for three weeks.
The regularity of the workshops was very beneficial because the improvement of the
participants was very noticeable. Plans are in place to keep these workshops during
the school holidays or even more regularly which is awesome and was the aim of my
Round Table project.
The highlight of my year on the Round Table was definitely the first Dance and
Movement Workshop I organised for youth with disabilities. It consisted of three
styles of dance and movement over the day. It was the "guinea pig" I guess because
it was a test run to see if it would work, and it did! It was just a one day workshop
then but that has now helped me develop the program over six workshops that
included two more styles of dance and the participants of the six workshop block
even learnt a dance. Another highlight of my year on the Round Table was having my
Dance and Movement Workshop featured in Dolly Magazine. This was amazing
because it was great to have my story recognised on a national scale.
My advice for anyone who wishes to apply for the Round Table is to just do it!! I
applied knowing that I would have a lot to share and contribute but I didn't ever think
that I would get in because I was just 15 when I applied. But no matter what age you
are there is always a chance and if you want it, just go for it!! Round Table was one
of the best experiences of my life and I would not be doing what I am doing and
having access to so many opportunities if I was not part of the 2012 Round Table.
Jacinta Kay
My life is never slow and I’m one of those people who
can’t sit still. I currently live in Farrar, Palmerston as I
bought my first house at the end of 2011 which is
probably my scariest and most challenging achievements
to date. Work involves managing staff, writing home loans
and a whole lot more as a Manager of a financial
institution, and I have been lucky enough to do a range of
qualifications through this. I have also gone back to
University to finish a Bachelor of Science (yes completely
different from working life but I love it and can’t wait to
finish). I am a fitness fanatic and if I’m not at work you will find me at the gym or
playing netball; the rest of my minimal free time goes towards helping run a netball
club.
My family consists of my parents, a younger sister and brother and an absolutely
amazing group of friends who have always encouraged me to be the best I can in
anything I set my mind to.
I’m hoping in the next couple of years I can travel a lot more and experience different
parts of this wonderful world. So far I have travelled around Australia (I plan to do it
again in the next couple of years), been to Bali, New Zealand and Japan. This year I
am off to the Philippines, with the rest of Asia and the United States high on my travel
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bucket list. I look forward to the next couple of years as I embark on new challenges
and experiences whilst continuing to live each day to the fullest.
The highlight of my year on Round Table was being able to MC the inaugural Youth
NT Conference dinner. It was very challenging for me as I often talk extremely fast,
but I had an amazing time, met some wonderful people and am extremely grateful for
the opportunity.
My advice to others: push yourself out of your comfort zone and join Round Table.
The experiences are like no other and you get to meet a very talented group of
people along the way, all wanting one thing - to make life better for the youth of the
Territory.
Jessica Cullen
I live in Darwin with my husband Josh, cat Harvey Dent,
a turtle and two rabbits (full house). I am working as a
Technical and Compliance Officer for TIO's Personal
Injury Management area. Last year Josh and I spent
four weeks in the USA and I can't wait to go back to
New York again one day! I enjoy boxing, baking,
listening to music and spending time with friends.
In terms of my experience on Round Table I had two
highlights:
•
•
Giving a speech on youth leadership at the
launch of the 2013 Northern Territory Young
Achiever Awards. Out of my comfort zone - FANTASTIC!
Coordinating the Round Table's presentation at the 2012 inaugural Youth NT
Conference - so much fun!
My advice is, take full advantage of the amazing opportunities available to you! It's
true that you only get out what you put in, so commit as much of yourself as you can,
be positive and look after yourself (mentally).
Karina Files
My name is Karina, I am 23 years old and I currently live in
Tennant Creek, 500kms north of Alice Springs. I am the
Tourism Business Development Officer for the Barkly region
in the Department of Business and enjoy working with the
local Tourism businesses.
Hobbies and interests of mine include chairing the Barkly
Shire Council Tennant Creek Local Board, getting involved
in community activities such as fundraising and charity
events, reading, studying and renovating my new house.
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In 2013, I will be completing my Diploma of Marketing through the Australian Institute
of Management and will be commencing a Bachelor of Government and Public
Management with Flinders University.
The highlight of my time on the Round Table was having the opportunity to meet so
many fantastic young people from across the Northern Territory who shared my
passion for working hard and making a difference to the NT in one way or another.
Another highlight for me was having the opportunity to work on a project targeting
youth in business, which I was truly passionate about and to be able to present that
project to the Chief Minister, Ministers and Executive Government workers was an
amazing feeling.
The Round Table is an amazing opportunity that I would encourage anyone to have a
go at! You will meet amazing people, create lasting friendships and learn valuable
skills. Go for it!
Mark Munnich
My family are from Yarrabah in Cairns in Far North
Queensland and also Broome of Western Australia and I
am the second eldest in my family out of seven.
I currently work at Danila Dilba Health Service as an
Indigenous Family Outreach Worker. That being my paid
job, outside of my working life I am actively involved
within my community in a number of organisations such
as being on the Board of Directors for Hoops 4 Health
and the Chairperson of the Red Cross Youth Action
Committee. Nationally, I am a youth ambassador for the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation
and a Board member for the National Indigenous Youth
Leadership Academy.
The highlight of my year on the Round Table was the first day when I met the other
members. I was nervous at first, which is very natural to everyone, but by the end of
the afternoon everyone seemed to have gelled together. All together my time on the
Round Table was a very rewarding experience and I wouldn’t change anything.
I say to everyone that wants to stand up to be heard and to be able to put their ideas
into reality: HERE’S YOUR CHANCE. If you’re someone who makes a difference or
wants to make a difference in your community, I recommend joining the Round Table
as it has done so much for me.
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Rona Glynn-Mcdonald
I have just entered one of the biggest years of my life. This
year I will complete my final year of schooling at St Philip's
College in Alice Springs. After finishing school, I hope to go
to Sydney University to study Law. I'm excited for the year
ahead and can't wait to embark on endless adventures once
it's all done. At the end of the year I plan to go on a service
project to either Honduras or India. I'm excited to hear about
all the wonderful things the Round Table crew will be getting
up to in 2013.
My highlight from Round Table was seeing my final report
all bound and ready for the final presentation at Parliament
House.
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CONTACT
The Round Table recruits each year in October/November.
If you would like more information or to apply to be a part of the Round Table please
contact:
The Office of Youth Affairs
phone:
08 8999 3890
freecall:
1800 652 736
email:
[email protected]
website:
www.youth.nt.gov.au
Facebook: Youth NT
Twitter: Youth NT
Linked in: Youth NT
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