GGAA 2014 - Skills for Sustainability - University of Western Sydney - Finalist

Learning now for tomorrow – the social engagement and leadership program

Learning now for tomorrow – the UWS social engagement and leadership program (SELP) is a unique multi-disciplinary volunteer program that runs annually over 4 weeks in Greater Western Sydney. SELP commenced in 2012 and brings together teams of domestic and international student volunteers to assist in local community projects. The program is closely aligned with the university’s vision and mission to enhance the student learning experience through engaging with community and offers an inclusive, intellectual learning environment that values social responsibility and sustainability. Over 180 students have participated in the program and contribute some 1,000 volunteer hours per year.

Top 3 learnings:

• Respect differences.
• Be collaborative – listen, link and only then lead.
• Good ideas with no idea of how to implement them are wasted ideas.