Jayda

About me

What are you most proud of in your community?

I am most proud of the fact that everyone in my community are all friends, and we all support each other and value everyone’s contributions and opinions. I believe that everyone in the community, each person has an idea that can shape the future.

What most concerns you about your community?

The thing that most concerns me about my community, is the fact that the exposure to drugs is very high. I feel that as time progresses the issue may become worse. I don’t believe younger generations should be exposed and the community should back the idea of decreasing those numbers.

What role can young people play in addressing issues in their community?

Young people can play the role of being an advocate or spokesperson in addressing those issues. I believe young people can get their point of views across and be very persistent and keen in making a change in the community.

Why is it important to include young people in community discussions and leadership?

I believe it is important because younger people do have different opinions and approaches to different matters. They view the world differently, and the community does value each member. I think the more people (young and old) the community have, the more problems they will solve.

What do you want to do after high school?

After successfully graduating high school, I would like to pursue a career in the health industry either in nursing or as a sports physio.

Who or what inspired you to choose that career after high school?

My family definitely inspired me because they have always encouraged me to go into the health industry and have been my biggest advocates and supporters. They push me to do better, and always say that they believe I can be successful.

What does good leadership look like?

I believe good leadership portrays someone who is willing to help and encourage others, who is inspiring, they are an advocate and are always willing to take on tasks and challenges and can make an impact.

What do you feel are your strengths as a leader?

I am willing to help others, I am always encouraging others, I always listen and value other’s thoughts and opinions and I like to be challenged and definitely want to make a change that will impact the future.

Share a story that you think demonstrates leadership.

I play for a competitive netball team named Ellenbrook Eels Netball Association (EENA). One Saturday we were warming up, ready to play this match that would get us into the grand final. Our coach and team captain messaged us at the last minute and told us that they were unable to make it to the game. All of us were confused and did not know what to do. I decided to step forward and lead, I knew we could still win. I ran the girls through warm up and got them prepared. Two minutes from game time, I called the team in for a chat. I told them no matter what happens, we should be proud we made it this far, and that we are capable of winning this match. On court everyone was being encouraging and supportive and no matter what, no one gave up or stopped trying. At the end, we had won the match and I told the girls they were great, and I couldn’t think of any other girls I would want to play for.

If you could give some leadership advice, what would it be? Why?

If I could give any advice, it would be to never stop trying for what you believe in. I would give this advice because I believe that it is empowering and encouraging, and that it is powerful enough to make a difference and change a community.

What are the best words of encouragement that you have received?

The best words of encouragement I have ever received is my from primary school teacher, Doreen Russell. She said “one day I’m going to turn on my TV and see you on there and say, ‘I taught that girl.’” It has always stayed with me because she is a role model to me and I value her words.

In your words, what are cross-cultural solutions?

Cross-cultural solutions to me are opportunities that younger people have to voice their opinions and express their views and their community and their problems, and how these problems can be resolved.

Is there any advice you would like to share with other leaders about Aboriginal leadership and cross-cultural solutions?

I believe having leaders to look up to is important because it gives hope for future generations to live in a world where issues are forever changing and being resolved. I believe being a leader does come with challenges like being outspoken or over-looked but may also come with benefits like making the future brighter, resolving issues and inspiring others to become leaders/advocates for future generations.

My interview with Michelle Feifar, community role model

Background

Michelle Feifar has currently worked in community services/catering industry. She worked as a cook in the kitchen, to help disadvantaged members of the community.

Why this line of work?

She chose this to help members of the community and give back to the community.

Most enjoy?

Meeting people from all different backgrounds and cultures.

Inspirations?

She was inspired through her passion to help other people.

Challenges?

• Self esteem issues.
• Getting back into work after being a single parent for so long.

Good leadership?

Someone who is willing to help others and listen to others and are strong and confident.

Strengths?

• Strong-willed
• Confident
• Easy listener
• Strong

Advice?

She would have stayed in school and graduated to have better job opportunities.

Encouragement?

She says "go for it because it is very rewarding and you give back to the community and making a small contribution".

Issues?

The issues are exposure to drugs, alcohol, homelessness, theft and lack of support for young people.

Solutions that are important?

For the community to thrive and grow into a better community.

Support?

• Getting together with Aboriginal leaders in the community.
• Working together on a solution for a better community.
• More support for young people.
• Encouraging and working with them and supporting them to help with the issues in the community.

Working together?

• Try to learn from each other.
• Respect each other's views.
• Being inclusive and encouraging others to be inclusive.
• To be one community.