Staff Spotlight – Hayden Newton-King
Men's Koorie Liason Officer Hayden Newton-King reflects on NAIDOC Week and his role at GOTAFE.
This week, July 7 - 14 is NAIDOC Week – a week to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
NAIDOC Week is also an opportunity to learn about First Nations cultures and histories as well as participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
The 2024 theme is "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud".
Hayden Newton-King began his journey with GOTAFE as a plumbing student but has since moved into the role of Men’s Koorie Liaison Officer.
As an education provider, GOTAFE plays an important role in celebrating and recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“I celebrate NAIDOC Week by attending community events and celebrating our culture within the community with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people – it is pretty special,” he said.
Hayden’s culture is a huge influence on his approach to both his career and the way he interacts with students.
“My culture helps me provide all types of support to Aboriginal people, community and GOTAFE,” he said.
“My mum has also had a significant impact on my journey.
“She taught me the importance of education and employment.”
Hayden has some memorable experiences from his time at GOTAFE, including becoming a finalist in the Innovative Koorie Learner Pathways – TAFE Provider category at the Wurreker Awards in 2023.
He has also recently completed a Certificate IV in Leadership and Mentoring at the Australian Indigenous Leadership Centre.
“My aspirations are to be the best version of myself I can be,” he said.
“I hope to contribute back to my community – especially the youth, to be someone they can look up to.”
To Indigenous students considering studying with GOTAFE, Hayden says “chase your goals and dreams.”
“GOTAFE has so much support available to get you through your studies, you just have to back yourself.”