EMPOWER Finale Lunch (Port Macquarie)
Monday 27 November
The Empower Finale Lunch in Port Macquarie was the final event for the program for 2017, and it highlighted and showcased the ability of a university, a school and the local community to come together to create an exceptional opportunity for young women to be supported and inspired by women in their community. This event attracted 15 high school students from Hastings Secondary College, both Westport and Port Macquarie campus, as well as 8 local Industry Professionals and 7 representatives from the university.
Once everyone had introduced themselves, there was a presentation by Caroline Hungerford, from Mind Elements. Caroline shared her unconventional and un-planned career journey and the different decisions that she made throughout her life eventually leading her to where she is now. She spoke about Mind Elements, and explained that she established the business with the sole purpose of supporting people in identifying, developing and valuing themselves.
After inspiring all of the women in the room, it was then time for everyone to share their stories, their hopes for the future and provide hints and tips of how to manage high school and beyond. In small groups students talked with industry professionals, and either university staff member or student. The high school students were extremely professional, presenting themselves in corporate attire (thanks to the efforts of a very dedicated staff member at the school, Leanne Jeffery), and asking some fantastic questions.
It was so rewarding to see the passion and enthusiasm from all of the attendees and staff from both the schools and the university. The final event for the Empower pilot program was a huge success, and we look forward to continuing the relationships with the fantastic women whom we met on this day as Empower grows and expands.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.