By Brendan Rees
Hashala Ferndando’s effort in helping high school students to get the best out of their studies has earned her a nomination for a state award.
The Swinburne University science student was nominated for a Berry Street Create Change Award – which puts her in the running to become the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year.
Ms Ferndando, 22, of Cranbourne East has donated her time for the past two years ensuring students of all backgrounds in Victoria’s low socio-economic schools stay engaged in science and mathematics classes.
She said volunteering with the In2science peer mentoring program had been highly rewarding.
“My primary aim of this program is to share my experience and struggles at high school and to provide an insight of university life to encourage them to pursue tertiary studies.”
“The best outcome of this program was helping students break down stereotypes and understand the content they didn’t know they were struggling with.”
“I’ve learned many different skills such as building interpersonal skills and communication skills,” she said.
“I was able to build relationships with the students and their teachers in science and mathematics classes and online once a week over a ten-week period.”
The Berry Street Create Change Award recognises young people who are driving activities, programs and initiatives that promote or create change.
Finalists will be presented and winners announced at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner at Flemington – The Event Centre on Friday evening, 18 May.
Category winners will each receive $1,000 into an account in their name from Bank of Melbourne; a $1,000 Bartercard Account and a trophy.
One of the ten category winners will be chosen as the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year and will receive a $2,000 flight voucher from Jetstar and a State trophy.
