The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is all about helping young people to develop valuable skills that will assist them through life and work, known as soft skills.
Research has found that many employers do in fact first look for crucial soft skills in potential employees over academic skills, with Google amongst this group. Google have said the seven top skills they look for in an employee are all soft skills and include being a good coach or leader and a problem
solver - both skills the Award helps young people learn!
To read more about Google's top seven skills, head to the article below:
To find out more about how the Award positively impacts the employability of young people head here.
Administration Assistant (30 hours per week) Sydney CBD
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia is the world’s leading youth achievement Award empowering young people to realise their full potential and build a brighter future.
In Australia, over 700,000 young Australians have participated in the Award since the program commenced here in 1959. The Australian National Award Office provides the leadership and enabling environment for the State & Territory Award offices (Divisions) to deliver the Award to over 24,000 new Participants annually through 1200 Award Centres and some 60,000 volunteers.
The Role
This role incorporates plenty of variety and will suit an energetic, passionate and organised person with strong communication, administrative and time management skills. Reporting to the Finance & Administration Manager, this role will ensure this small but efficient team stays on top of administration, records and stakeholder management. The role offers an opportunity to grow and expand your skills and knowledge.
Applications close 8 December 2017
Job Description
Organisation Detail:
National Award Authority (NAA) Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia,Level 33, 88 Phillip Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Position Title:
Administration Assistant
Reports To:
Finance and Administration Manager
Industry:
Not for Profit / Youth Development
Role Status:
Permanent Part Time – 30 hours per week / may be spread over 5 days
Role Responsibilities and Duties:
Enquiry management (general in bound calls, including Participant enquiries)
CRM and database administration and maintenance
General communications support including social media and website content
Assisting with meetings including diary management, visitor hospitality and minute taking
Maintenance of office environment, including mail, banking and document management
Supporting the Sponsorship & Ambassadors Manager with administration of the Friends (Sponsorship & Fundraising Arm of the organisation), Alumni, Ambassadors and other supporters and donors
Supporting other Project Managers as directed
Required Skills and Attributes:
Excellent customer service
Advanced oral and written communication with an ability to work with people at senior levels
High level of accuracy and a keen eye for detail
Multitasker who is organised and able to prioritise
Proficient in Word and Excel and reasonable typing speed (50wpm)
Proactive approach to work and the ability to work autonomously as well as work collaboratively
Database and digital capabilities
If you are looking for a supportive and learning environment, an entry-level position that will be the first step of your career and believe that you can add value to our team to meet our organisational goals and have a genuine desire to work, then apply now!
Don’t forget to let us know if you have completed your Award!
Please email your cover letter and CV to admin@dukeofed.com.au to apply.
Further queries please contact Eleanor on 02 8241 1500(prompt3) or email admin@dukeofed.com.au
Applications close 8 December 2017
We are pleased to announce that Australia will have two representatives at the Awards International Gold Event in Prague in October.
The International Gold Event (IGE) is a global leadership program for the immediate next generation of key decision makers and influencers within The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award worldwide. It brings together participants from all over the world to develop character and leadership skills and provides opportunities to contribute to the development of policy and practice throughout the Award family. The International Gold Event gives participants the chance to meet, to exchange ideas and to establish sustainable networks of emerging leaders who will contribute to the development of the Award locally, nationally and internationally. If you are reading this then hopefully you are going to be part of this experience – as a delegate, staff member, or in some other way. We hope this will be an experience that you’ll count as one of your life’s milestones.
The theme for the 2017 International Gold Event is “Engaging a younger generation in our sustainable future.” More information is available at International-gold-event-2017
2017 IGE Representatives
Ben Nedwich (21) has volunteered at hundreds of community service events in Bundaberg and surrounding communities, completing his Gold Award during his final year at school through PCYC. Currently working as an IMS Support Officer at Bundaberg Regional Council, Ben’s unwavering involvement in his community is truly remarkable. Among other roles, he volunteers at the PCYC Blazers Outdoor Education Youth Group, speaks about his professional journey as an Australian Apprenticeship Ambassador and is member of the Youth arm of Rotary – Bundaberg Rotaract.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award as Ben explains “allowed me to gain an administration traineeship with Bundaberg Regional Council, even though I was just a farmer” and from there go on to win Australia Trainee of the Year. As part of his Gold Award, Ben spent a week in the Solomon Islands devoting his time to rebuilding an outdoor kitchen at the Helena Gouldie Hospital after the previous structure was burnt down in a fire. According to Ben, “allowing people to fail and face challenges allows us to learn “which leads to “growth, opportunity and new ideas “further stating that “betterment does not advance from idleness”.
Nathan Alterator (33) completed his Gold Award in 2008 and has volunteered tirelessly to benefit his community. Currently a secondary History/English Teacher and Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Coordinator at Shellharbour Anglican College, Nathan oversees approximately 80 students completing their Award and has trained colleagues on how to implement the Award since 2009.
Over half of the students in year 10 and 11 at Shellharbour Anglican College are involved with the Gold Program in 2017, testament to Nathan’s efforts. Nathan has volunteered for Christian Surfers Australia, recently helping to run the ‘Paddle Against Poverty’ which raises funds for impoverished young people in the Pacific Region. He has also devoted his time to Bulli Anglican Church, currently leading the Welcoming Team and in the past leading the children and youth programs. According to Nathan, a perfect world would be “to see people respecting others regardless of their ethnicity, gender or economic status”.
Hannah Jago(27) completed her Gold Award in 2015 and possesses a wealth of volunteer experience, working closely with organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Association of Australia, the Cancer Council, Curtin University and the Western Australia Symphony Orchestra. Completing a Masters of Arts Management at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), much of Hannah’s time is involved in the Arts industry, working at the Perth Theatre Trust, and volunteering with the Perth City Ballet, Awesome Arts Festival and Perth International Arts Festival.
While Completing her Gold Award, Hannah devoted her service to St. George’s Cathedral, developed Jewellery and metalsmithing skills, and assisted children with low socio-economic backgrounds in Cambodia, teaching them English and life skills for her Residential Project. A perfect world in Hannah’s eyes involves an environment where “everyone has the right to a good education” and is a place where “cultures are embraced, knowledge is shared and equal rights for women are maintained”.
Well done to Aiden, Georgia, Hayley, Callum and Adam from OAK Tasmania on achieving their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh's International Award on Monday 5th December at Government House Tasmania. Presented by the Governor of Tasmania, Professor the Honourable Kate Warner, and Mr Warner these 5 young Tasmanians living with disabilities showcase the inclusiveness of the Award
On Wednesday 19th October The Hon. Adrian Piccoli, Minister for Education, supported by The Hon. Luke Foley, Leader of the Opposition, launched the “Duke of Ed Employer” initiative to a group of over ninety attending MPs, business supporters and community organisations in the Jubilee Room at Parliament House, Sydney
The purpose of the Duke of Ed Employer initiative is to encourage more young Australians to take part in the Award. By recognising and endorsing the Award through recruitment processes for entry level employees, employers are demonstrating that the Award is a valuable pursuit for young people to explore their potential and have experiences that are oftentimes transformational. This is as simple as asking the question “Have you done the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award” on application forms or during the interview process. The initiative also encourages employers to use The Award as a training and development tool for their young workforce.
The Leader of the Opposition, The Hon. Luke Foley said, “Not everyone is born with the confidence to achieve their potential so the recognition and support that comes from this award can make a world of difference to a young person's life. I am honoured to play a part in encouraging business to recognise the value of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme.”
Joining the party leaders to officially launch the initiative were Chair and the Deputy Chair of The Parliamentary Friends of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, The Hon. Natasha Maclaren Jones and The Hon. Clayton Barr; Chair and Deputy Chair of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia, The Hon. Shane Stone and The Hon, Sandra Nori; Chief Executive Officer of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, Mr Peter Kaye AM; and Professor John Simons, Vice Chancellor Macquarie University with whom the Award has a preferred partner relationship.
Major Australian employer, Hungry Jack’s, is one of the first large organisations to become a ‘Duke of Ed Employer’. Chairman and CEO, Jack Cowin says “Leadership, responsibility and respect for fellow citizens are important qualities we look for in our young employees. Hungry Jack’s is proud to be a ‘Duke of Ed Employer’ as we believe these valuable life skills are cultivated through participation in the Award”.
Deputy Chairman of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, The Hon. Sandra Nori, says
“Resilience, responsibility, respect and cooperation cannot be taught – they can only be learnt experientially. The Award is a great exemplar of transformational learning. The Award is about making the citizen and we know the Award changes lives. Australia needs young people who will undertake the challenges of doing the Award.”
Gold Award Holder, Ms Neelam Gopalani, who now works at a global professional services firm, spoke about her Award experience and how it assisted her to successfully secure the first role of her career. “The activities I undertook as part of my Award helped build my problem solving and leadership abilities, encouraged me to give back to society, and work in diverse teams. I also developed a greater love of the Australian landscape through the fieldtrips I undertook. The confidence I gained and experiences that I had I believe gave me an edge in entering the workforce an
d landing my first job”, she said.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is especially grateful to The Hon. Natasha Maclaren Jones and her staff, ably assisted by the Hon. Clayton Barr, as the hosts of this important bipartisan event through their involvement in The Parliamentary Friends of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This group of Parliamentarians supports the Award through their strong connections with local schools and communities.
Find out more about the Duke of Ed Employer program HERE
Thank you to all our Founding Duke of Ed Employers
Having a university qualification is more important than ever yet Australia's most educated generation are leaving university and now facing the worst job prospects in decades. The reality of today’s competitive labour market is that completing a tertiary qualification won’t always guarantee a job or even an interview in your specialised field or occupation. Over 30% of recent graduates find themselves still looking for a fulltime work four months after completing their degree.
(Source Graduate Careers Australia 2015)
Whilst an academic track record may demonstrate competence and dedication to achieving a goal the game has changed and it is not the only things today's employers are looking for.
Showcase your unique skills and qualities
The challenge is now the way in which you showcase yourself; as an individual with relevant qualities, qualifications and experiences.
Today’s employers from large corporates to entrepreneurial start-ups are looking for well-rounded candidates who also possess skills learnt outside of the classroom. Skills that show you are potentially a proactive, confident and engaged employee who can work in a team and learn and adapt to real life situations.
Finding marketable qualities to put on your resume may not be that challenging especially if you have been involved in regular activities, volunteering, and other significant projects during your studies.
From amateur sports teams, short film productions to group hiking expeditions and community work, all these can demonstrate your willingness to challenge yourself, persevere, communicate and lead. Attributes which are attractive to employers.
Stand out from the crowd
Skills learnt outside of the classroom translate into key qualities worthy of mention on your CV but ensure you can back them up with real life examples.
Skills and qualities learnt outside the classroom may include
team work
problem solving
communication skills
goal setting
resilience
responsibility
community service and engagement
positive contributions to community
perseverance
confidence
decision making
organization and planning
Doing activities outside the classroom through internationally recognised programs like the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award are also important to mention as they are highly regarded by employers globally.So consider all your life outside the classroom as ultimately these activities may be the deal breaker in landing your dream job.
Governor of NSW His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret'd) presenting Scott McCurdo with his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
Learn how doing the Award made the difference in getting that dream job for Scott
Recent accounting graduate Scott McCurdo landed his dream job through showcasing his volunteering and community service experiences as part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
According to the recruiter Scott was selected as he was “the only candidate that had an impeccable record of community service”
So demonstrate that you are a well-rounded individual
That community engagement, volunteering or honing new skills is a challenge that you welcome. Making you not only a unique individual, but a motivated worker who is capable of developing oneself and performing in any environment.
Add the Award to your CV and LinkedIn profile
Adding your Award to your CV and LinkedIn profile will enable you to stand out from the crowd. Including the skills you have developed outside of the classroom will demonstrate to employers that you have the qualities they require.
Share your Award experiences with employers in interviews
Use your Award experiences to demonstrate to employers how you learnt key skills. For example, you most likely developed teamworking, communication and leadership skills on your Adventurous Journey. You probably improved your patience during your Skill section; taking time to learn something new requires dedication, and you may have even surprised yourself with your ability to problem solve whilst carrying out your Service. It’s skills and experiences like these that employers are keen to hear about, so remember to tell them when they ask for examples of how you demonstrate each of these skills and attributes.
Join The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - ALUMNI
Applications are now open for 5 young Australians to represent Australia at APEC VOICES OF THE FUTURE 2016. From 12 -19 NOV in LIMA PERU
The youth forum runs alongside the APEC summit and is a great opportunity to network with global leaders and representatives and address this year’s theme of “Quality Growth and Human Development”.
We are looking for 5 participants to represent Australia (4 youth participants 18-25) and (1 educator over the age of 25).
If you are interested and are studying and or have good knowledge of trade, the economy and international relations, especially related to APEC then apply today.
Applications close on the Monday 12th September and shortlisted applicants will be interviewed.
Volunteering is crucial to creating healthier, happier young Australians that are better equipped for work and life. With over 8 million volunteering success stories worldwide since 1956 The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award recognises the incredible impact it can have on a person’s wellbeing.
We’ve been inspired by stories about our Participants gaining a greater community appreciation, discovering their passions and recognising their potential through community service activities. However, these experiences also have the potential to build pathways towards education and employment.
Education
We are experiencing a changing landscape where educational institutions are recognising the missing link in traditional university recruitments. Today’s society is sending a message to young people that emphasizes personal success rather than concern for others and the common good as the ATAR scores seems to be the quintessential element to getting into university.
Harvard University’s recent ‘Turning the tide’ report is paving the way for a fair admissions process to reduce achievement pressure and level the playing field. A recent panel discussion hosted by La Trobe University, ‘Rethinking University Admissions’, explored the implications of relying on technology systems and ATAR scores during recruitment. It was discussed that most university admissions are mature aged students therefore only 31 per cent are based on a students’ ATAR. The current system also alienates students who may be experiencing a social disadvantage which could negatively affect their score and ability to participate in extra-curricular activities which is also highly regarded. These students may be helping out on the family farm or caring for their siblings but won’t get the recognition they deserve and the same opportunities if nothing changes.
La Trobe University is one of few educational institutions that place a high premium on young volunteers with their Aspire program. Students who have volunteering and community engagement experience are applauded for their efforts and offered early entry into the university. Employers are also beginning to reflect these values.
As a partner of the Aspire program, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award provides a pathway into education. All Bronze, Silver and Gold Award Holders will automatically qualify for the community engagement criteria of the program.
Employment
In a recent CIPD survey in the UK, 67% of companies surveyed found that entry-level candidates with voluntary experience have more employability. The same survey also affirmed 82% agreed volunteering develops team working skills, 80% said it had a profound impact on communication whilst time management and prioritisation, problem-solving, adaptability and leadership talent were also identified as key competencies young people with volunteering experience bring to the workplace.
At the Duke of Ed, we are incredibly pleased to provide young Victorians with a program that facilitates and embraces volunteer experience. Structured as part of the Award, this service component encourages the discipline and routine of volunteering with the aim of creating a lifelong practice of community involvement and voluntary service.
It’s not often that a candidate is offered a job purely on their academic results.Understanding them as people, as team players, as problem solvers, their commitment, leadership, ethics and resilience are very important. The Duke of Ed provides young people with a framework that clearly talks to these requirements and demonstrates these skills.
In the UK a large number of employers look at Duke of Ed as one of the key extra-curricular activity undertaken by a young person. In Australia, we have followed and embarked on a similar campaign to raise employer’s awareness of the high calibre of talent of our Award Holders. Across Australia, over 35,000 young people volunteer every year as part of The Award and are left with life and leadership skills that continue to open doors.
Nhu Quach, 2015 Gold Award Holder
The Award gave me the confidence and necessary skills to obtain part-time employment as a pharmacy assistant. The service component of The Award developed my ability to approach customers and provide my service to them. Time management is also a key skill that the Gold Award help me develop as I completed my Award during VCE. My employers recognised the commitment required to complete The Award and it was a key standout from my resume that helped me gain employment.
The Award also helped me receive a conditional offer from La Trobe University to study a Bachelor of Applied Science/Master of Physiotherapy - my dream course! La Trobe recognised my service to the community and rewarded me with an early offer into the Aspire program. The Award helped me recognise the importance of being of service to others and that’s what I hope to continue in a career in physiotherapy.
With over 8 million volunteering success stories worldwide since 1956 The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award knows that volunteering is crucial to creating healthier, happier young Australians equipped for work and life.
Locally over 35,000 Young Australians volunteer every year as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Gold Award participants spend a minimum of 52 hours volunteering over 12 months whilst Bronze Award Holders must contribute at least 13 hours over 3 months.
Structured as part of the Award, this service component encourages the discipline and routine of volunteering with the aim of creating a lifelong practice of community involvement and voluntary service. This regular commitment to volunteering provides young Australians with an opportunity to actively get involved – an experience they enjoy as they witness the real difference they can make to the lives of others whilst developing a greater responsibility to themselves and their community.
National Volunteer Week (NVW) is a time to not only celebrate the generous contribution of our nation’s volunteers but to recognise the role volunteering can play in creating healthier happier well rounded young Australians.
The volunteering component of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award's is a valuable asset for young people. It builds self-confidence, responsibility, understanding and communication skills and showcases that they have experienced life outside the classroom as motivated community participants.
We are now seeing more and more universities and workplaces looking for candidates that have served their community in some way as evidence of a well-rounded character. In a recent UK survey, 67% of companies surveyed believed entry-level candidates with voluntary experience have more employability skills to offer than those who don’t. The same survey also affirmed that 82% agreed volunteering develops team working skills, 80% said it had a profound impact on communication whilst time management and prioritisation, problem-solving, adaptability and leadership talent were also identified as key competencies young people with volunteering experience bring to the workplace.
Scott McCurdo a recent Gold Award Holder secured a much sought after internship at a major accounting firm. The company acknowledged they had chosen Scott as he “was the only candidate that had an impeccable record of community service”.
Similarly, Universities across the country are also now starting to formally recognise the value of volunteering with many now offering bonus entry points (UNSW), priority access (La Trobe) and as approved activities (Bond University).
5 young Australian's represented Australian youth at APEC – VOICES OF THE FUTURE 2015 November 12-19, 2015 in Manila Philippines
Founded in 2007, APEC Voices of the Future is a youth meeting for exchanges among young students(18-25 years of age) from each of the 21 economies represented and is held concurrently with the APEC Summit, aiming to let young students know more about APEC, expand their horizons, stimulate their enthusiasm for taking on the roles of leaders, and promote in-depth cultural exchanges among countries.
Australia through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award nominated 5 participants (4 youth participants and 1 educator) to represent Australia at APEC Voices of the Future Youth Forum 2015 held in Manila Philippines November 12-19.
The theme was “Building a Sustainable Future: Inclusive Growth, Resilience, Empowerment”.
Attended by over 120 delegates from 21 APEC Economies the meeting provides a platform to address issues relating to APEC from a young leaders perspective.
Read who represented Australia at the 2015 APEC Voices of the Future Forum here
EVENT SUMMARY
Day 1, Thursday, 12 November 2015
Most of the group arrived in Manila to be greeted with a warm welcome from the Filipino people. The Australian team met each other over dinner and had a brief orientation and briefing conducted by Mr Noel Gould, Chairman, Virtual Trade Mission Foundation International APEC Voices Leadership Council and APEC Voices Working Committee, Philippines. The group then joined their fellow APEC delegates from Japan, the Philippines, and Chinese Taipei for a dinner filled with engaging conversations on the summit and relevant issues affecting young people.
Day 2, Friday, 13 November 2015 - Asian Development Bank
The first official day of the Forum program took the APEC youth representatives to the Asian Development Bank for the opening session which focused on improving their understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals and the sharing and development of ideas on how they as youth could promote progress on these.
Following this, they had the privilege of being joined by key leaders and members of ABAC (APEC Business Advisory Council) for a forum in which they listened to an responded to issues raised by youth delegates. This was followed by a reception with these business leaders at Ayala Museum: a night of learning about the history of the Philippines and getting the opportunity to speak to business leaders and other youth delegates.
The group had the opportunity to meet the influential magnate, Jaime Zobel de Ayala at the opening function and Australian Youth representative - Miguel Vera-Cruz as a Filipino, travelling through the regions of Manila, was taken back to his cultural heritage and felt inspired to take up more of a leadership position in encouraging Filipinos to recognise themselves, and to stand up and be counted on the world stage, for their long-term development and growth. Miguel said " Through the APEC summit, I have gained the courage to embrace my Filipino heritage, and believe this platform will be the bridge between Australia and the Philippines, and an opportunity for the host nation to increase its presence in the global leadership arena. The APEC Voices of the Future summit has inspired me to engage in cross cultural community development- growing together in a regional context".
Day 3, Saturday 14 November 2015 - Opening Ceremony
The APEC Voices of the Future 2015 Opening Ceremony was welcomed by Mr James Soh, Co-Chair of the APEC Voices Leadership Council, and Mr Richard Bolt of the Asian Development Bank, with addresses from H.E Cesar Purisima, Secretary of Finance, Republic of the Philippines and H.E. Philip Goldberg, US Ambassador to the Philippines. Then, with a ceremonial strike of a triangle, the conference was open!
Mr Noel Gould, Co-Chair of the APEC Voices Leadership Council, addressed the youth forum. Mr Gould spoke on how youth can contribute to building sustainable and resilient communities in the Asia Pacific region. Next, a representative from each economy presented a youth declaration. Each economy shared their strengths and aspirations, with Miguel speaking on behalf of the Australian delegation.
The delegates were then introduced to 'Youth4Asia', an initiative of the Asian Development Bank. Youth4Asia, among other projects, facilitates a competition that encourages youths to design and implement creative solutions to current needs.
Day 4, Sunday 15 November 2015 - Cultural Tour to Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm
The group visit Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm in Bulacan
After a short plenary, delegates got to tour around the GK Enchanted Farm, led by Tony Meloto and other social entrepreneurs.
The delegates also got the chance to experience different social enterprise demos, where the entrepreneurs explained and demonstrated how the products are made. Some of them even got to try making these products themselves.
Day 5, Monday 16 November 2015 - APEC CEO Summit
APEC CEO Summit 2015 “Creating the Future: Better, Stronger, Together” and the APEC CEO Summit – Welcome Reception
The Australian delegation joined the other Voices delegates, business leaders and CEOs for the commencement of the APEC CEO Summit.
President Benito Aquino III opened the summit by addressing the packed crowd, speaking about the importance of inclusive growth and how his anti-corruption, economically focused government has aimed to promote this. The second summit session featured a panel discussing the current geopolitical and economic situation in the world, with insights from President Michelle Bachelet of Chile, Ian Bremmer (president of the Eurasia group), Dennis Nally (Global Chairman PWC) and John Rice (vice chairman of General Electric). This mix of perspectives from business, government and geopolitical analytics gave the delegates present an enhanced appreciation of the interconnectedness of international affairs, with a particularly interesting insight being the Asia-Pacific's relative international political stability enticing greater investment. The afternoon session opened with an engaging talk by David Plouffe about Uber not being in competition with taxis but rather aiming to shape the way people use cars and benefit from the sharing economy. This then progressed to a panel discussing innovation and entrepreneurship, presenting the example of Taiwan/Chinese Taipei's transition into a high-tech economy.
There was a consensus among the panelists that it is more effective to use existing infrastructure more efficiently, rather than build infrastructure additional infrastructure.
Another issue discussed was how disruption (whether natural or man made) will alter the way cities operate. The panel agreed that ability to cope with and absorb disruption is important to improve the cities of the future.
The Australian youth representatives met Mr Doyle at the reception after the summit and talked about the panel discussion.
As the engaging first day drew to a close, the youth and other delegates made their way to Ayala Plaza for a Fiesta-themed welcome reception. This extravagant affair was truly spectacular, giving the delegates both a vision of the fiestas that take place in each province in the Philippines along with a chance to meet some of the business leaders attending the summit.
Photo with Robert Doyle, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, with the backdrop of the spectacular Ayala Triangle. With Madelin Strupitis-Haddrick, Sophie Walter and Ruth Parsons.
Day 6, Tuesday 17th November 2015 - APEC CEO Summit and SME Summit
The youth delegates formed two groups, with each attending the APEC CEO Summit 2015 and the SME Summit.
A highlight from the CEO Summit was a panel discussion on building better cities. There was one Australian representative was on the panel - Robert Doyle, Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Mr Doyle discussed a significant challenge for our future cities; connecting federal, state, local and private entities to build infrastructure.
Day 7, Wednesday 18th November 2015 - Youth Declaration
At the CEO Summit they heard addresses by the President of China H.E. Xi Jinping, the PM of Russia - Dmitry Medvedev and US President Obama moderates the conversation between entrepreneurs Mr Jack Ma & Ms Aisa Mijeno.
President Obama's address framed the discussion of protecting the environment and sustainability, highlighting the key roles measures that young business leader can undertake. Interestingly, Ms Mijeno, a Filipino engineer, has developed a lamp fueled by saltwater. Such innovation is critical to the development of rural areas, and working towards a more sustainable resource. The discussion engaged the youth delegates to consider environmental sustainability and greater community benefit.
Today the youth educators signed off the Youth Declaration.
Developing a declaration that reflected the aspirations of such a diverse range of economies was certainly a challenge! The differing perspectives and priorities of the economies was difficult to meet, however, through collaboration, the youth delegates identified developed key themes within their groups. These themes included:
Environment and sustainability
Empowering Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) through possible tax deductions, and enabling them in E-commerce
Education and capacity building
The opportunity for the group to workshop through their ideas and synergise with other delegates, enhanced their understanding of natural resource management, and its impact on global businesses.
The APEC 2015 Voices programme concluded with a night of fun, laughter and friendship. With speeches and awards, the working committee and delegates thanked each other for all their work and participation and were treated to a dance performance by a local Filipino group. The group dressed up in Australian attire as bush conservationists; a theme which was loved by the other delegates.The ceremony concluded with exchange of gifts and well wishes. The delegates experienced a unique week of learning, collaborating and developing their voice as an active generation involved in world and regional affairs.
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The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Australia
The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is all about helping young people to develop valuable skills that will assist them through life and work, known as soft skills.
rgh’s International Award, The Hon. Sandra Nori, says
ent in The Parliamentary Friends of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This group of Parliamentarians supports the Award through their strong connections with local schools and communities.
With over 8 million volunteering success stories worldwide since 1956 The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award knows that volunteering is crucial to creating healthier, happier young Australians equipped for work and life.
