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Stories From Learners

Young woman sitting in front of laptop.

A leader in the making

Colleen Forbes, an indigenous woman of the Kurnai clan, grew up in an idyllic traditional environment with her people on Lake Tyers. In 2019, with courage and determination, she undertook a Learn Local Kickstart in Hospitality and Retail course at Community College Gippsland.

In the beginning of the six-week learning program, Colleen’s confidence was low. However, welcoming staff made her feel at home and she soon transformed into a confident, motivated student.

Now she’s happily employed and flourishing at the checkout at Woolworths. Colleen loves being part of a team that helps people and is exploring leadership opportunities within the company.

The positive learning experience also ignited a long-term goal of becoming a Koorie educator and advocate, and leader of her people.

In 2020, Colleen was also the recipient of the Ro Allen Pre-accredited Learner Award in the Victorian Learn Local Awards.