During her traineeship, Stacey planned events and workshops for young people. Following feedback gathered at the Banyule Youth Summit, where young people share their ideas and priorities, Stacey helped deliver 39 of the outcomes raised. She also attended the Youth Summit Report Card event, which showcases the progress made towards delivering these outcomes.
Her journey began after a teacher at VACSAL encouraged her to apply, despite initially feeling that local government wasn't for her.
“Originally, I thought ‘Nah, the traineeship isn’t for me. It sounded too fancy. But giving it a crack was one of the best things I've ever done for myself.
“The traineeship is not only professionally but personally one of the best things that I've ever done. Even when it comes to my confidence - seeing how I was at the start to now is like I’m a completely different person.”
One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was the opportunity to build stronger connections with her community through events, family days, workshops and time at the local Aboriginal Gathering Place.
“Even just being more connected with my culture and with my community was a massive part of why I enjoyed my traineeship.”
Working directly with young people has become one of the most rewarding parts of Stacey’s role, especially with teenagers.
“Some of the younger members of the community can be hard to crack into, but then once you crack them, it's so heartwarming. For example, when I go to the Gathering Place, some of them they're literally like, ‘What are you doing, Aunty?’ Or you see them out in the street and they're like, ‘Aunty!’ It's so cool.”
“It was also great to see how awesome young people are to work with. I come to work half the time and I'm like, ‘How is this my job?’
“My boss now, she looks at me and she’s like ‘You're going to be a CEO of some community organisation one day!’”
Having once been encouraged to take a chance on a traineeship herself, Stacey is now helping create similar opportunities for young people in her community by being a positive role model and helping young mob begin their careers.
Banyule is continuing the traineeship program in 2027. If you or someone you know may be interested, contact indigenousprograms@aflsportsready.com.au.