University of Melbourne partners with the Australian African Foundation for Retention and Opportunity

Students learnt about minerals and how STEM can help protect the environment. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos
Students learnt about minerals and how STEM can help protect the environment. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos

More than 200 African students from several high schools visited the University of Melbourne for a career forum designed to help bridge a critical gap many young people face at the end of school: understanding what pathways are possible, and how to access them.

Delivered through a partnership between the University and the Australian African Foundation for Retention and Opportunity (AAFRO), the AAFRO Live2Learn Career Expo created space for students to explore opportunities in Business and Law, Entrepreneurship, Education, Health and STEM.

Students heard from professionals across Fire Rescue Victoria, Ambulance Victoria, Youth Services, Trades, Construction and Transport, Health, Community and Education, Business, Law and Leadership, STEM, Creative Industries, Sport and Media Services. The day offered a chance not only to learn about different careers, but also to ask questions, build connections and better understand the steps needed to pursue their goals.

Students gained hands-on learning experiences on how to perform CPR with Ambulance Victoria. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos Students gained hands-on learning experiences on how to perform CPR with Ambulance Victoria. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos

Achaou, a student now in her final year of undergraduate studies, shared: “Like many students, I spent a lot of time comparing myself to others and feeling uncertain about what I wanted my future to look like.”

“When I finished school, I knew I was interested in education and working with children, but I wasn't sure how to get there. Some of the challenges we experience are not obvious to others from the outside, and it can make us feel alone and lost. But there are many young people who feel this way, and there are many avenues to cross these barriers.”

AAFRO CEO and Managing Director Mamadou Diamanka said: “There are various kinds of barriers when it comes to accessing education. It can be a lack of support, lack of information, and oftentimes, it’s not having the opportunity to see people who look like you doing a job and hearing from them.

“By partnering with the University of Melbourne, we create a space where we empower and inspire young people to learn from one another, connect with industry and discover more about themselves.”

Students explored several interactive booths and stalls to learn more about career pathways. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos Students explored several interactive booths and stalls to learn more about career pathways. Picture: David Darlington, Grid 9 Photos

University of Melbourne Pro Vice-Chancellor (Culture and Engagement) Professor Sara Wills said that while talent exists, opportunity and access to information is not often readily accessible.

“Universities are great places to work with communities and create opportunities like this, where young people can explore what is possible, ask questions and begin to see themselves in a range of futures,” Professor Wills said.

“Every young person should have the chance to discover more, to ignite their passion and to feel supported in pursuing their ambitions.”

The University is committed to serving the public good by leading and supporting civic and engagement initiatives in partnership with community organisations and leaders.