Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE

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GOTAFE teacher emerging Indigenous leader

From a shortlist of six exceptional Indigenous Victorians, GOTAFE teacher Roland Atkinson was one of two named as 2008 Emerging Leaders as part of the Fellowship for Indigenous Leadership program.

At a small luncheon held on 10 July at the Queen Victoria Women's Centre in Melbourne, Minister Richard Wynne made the announcement and presented Mr Atkinson with his award.

Employed as the Project Officer at Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE (GOTAFE), 27 year old Mr Atkinson was recognised for his commitment to Indigenous education and for the outstanding value he adds to the Goulburn Valley Indigenous community.

"I believe that education is the key to building a stronger community. I am passionate about the value of education," said Mr Atkinson.

The Fellowship recognises examples of outstanding leadership provided by past Indigenous leaders and enables today's and tomorrow's leaders to pursue their visions for the well-being and cultural identity of Victoria's Indigenous communities.

The Fellowship also promotes the benefits of mutual understanding and genuine partnerships between mainstream and Indigenous communities.

Since commencing his career with GOTAFE in 2006, Mr Atkinson has successfully fashioned many achievements. Students were keen to enrol in the Certificate II in Caring for Indigenous Material Culture due to Mr Atkinson's strong connection with the community.

Mr Atkinson said, "Many of these students were reconnecting with education for the first time. It was rewarding to see I was giving these students the confidence to go out into the broader community and present their work. Several students are now self employed,creating and selling their own artwork."

For more information on Koorie education programs please call 1300 GOTAFE (468233).