Diploma Makes a Difference to Community in Need
Community development worker Kirk Gibson believes there are two distinct forms of learning – formal education and real-world projects that put ideas into action. And combining the two was his key to building a rewarding career.Ten years ago, Kirk volunteered at a school for local disadvantaged children in Nepal. The trip ignited his interest in community development and the positive change that it can make. When he returned home, Kirk found an opportunity to purse his interest through a Diploma of Community Development.
Kirk then used the skills he gained from the Diploma to set up a charitable foundation Australians for Cambodian Education (ACE). The foundation raises funds for the Happy School in Cambodia which, with ACE’s support, has grown to a professional-standard facility providing education for more than 50 students.
Kirk believes that the Diploma was the starting point he needed to make his ambitions a reality.
"The vocational education process really broadened my understanding and gave me the opportunity to forge relationships with organisations with similar aims and values," he says.
Kirk values continual learning and has since gone on to complete a Degree in International Development and Masters in Development Studies, all while playing a leading role at Australians for Cambodian Education.
"Training gave me the skills and knowledge I needed to make my career happen. And now I am one of the lucky ones who can truly say I love my job and every day work to make a difference to the lives of others."