Our mentors

Ali is currently working as a self-employed freelance editor for social media clients in Australia, New Zealand and the US. She is also working on creating her first narrative game, The Marvellous Phantasma: The Heist of the Sapphire Butterfly.

'I received a low ATAR and didn't get the entry score required to get into the Bachelor of Arts (Professional and Creative Writing). I was very upset, but instead of giving up on my dreams, I asked around Deakin to see if I could find another pathway. I was told about the associate degree program, which was a wonderful introduction to how university worked. It taught me how to write essays, how to reference and cite my sources, and how to navigate the Deakin library. I did so well that after a year I transferred into the professional and creative writing degree. From there I graduated with distinction and went on to do a postgraduate honours degree.

Before DEAP, I was terrified of speaking with strangers, never mind a crowd of people. Without the program, I wouldn’t be nearly as confident as I am now. The self-esteem, leadership and active listening skills I gained from being a MoD still help me when I speak with clients in my editing job.'

Ali's advice for young people?
'Don't give up if you first fail, keep on looking for alternative ways to get where you want to be and eventually you will find one that works in your favour.'

Rakshit came to Australia in 2017 as an international student from India. After graduating from his engineering degree, Rakshit gained full-time employment in Bendigo as a Technical Officer in the School of Health and Engineering at LaTrobe University. Rakshit is interested in all things related to AI, IoT and robotics.

'I joined Deakin the same year I finished high school. One of the major challenges to studying abroad was the financial implications. I was fortunate enough, however, to attain a scholarship.

The DEAP community was filled with interesting, kind and like-minded people. Every program I ever presented, left me with a smile and the satisfaction of working for something other than money. It also helped me understand more about the Australian community in general.

As a MoD, I developed many skills that were important to my success at university and helped me land a job. I received a Hallmark for Leadership from Deakin and most of the credit for my development as a leader can be attributed to DEAP. This job helped with my confidence, public speaking and overall made me a better person. I also happened to make some lifelong friends along the way.'

Rakshit's advice for young people?
'Understand that life is not a race. Take time to understand who you are, what makes you happy and, most importantly, find out how can you help people. If you don’t know what to do in life, attempt the hardest thing you can find, as this will help you build character. Nothing worth doing is ever easy. Work hard and everything will work out for you.'

Since graduating in 2021, Erica secured a position with the Department of Transport working on the North East Link Project as a Learning & Engagement Officer. Through her position, Erica helps create pathways for people with marginalised and disadvantaged backgrounds to gain employment.

'I struggled a lot with mental health issues during high school and because of this, I did not complete VCE. Instead, I chose to start an apprenticeship and work as a waitress. When I made the decision to go to university, it was more challenging as I didn't have any qualifications. Applying straight away was not an option. I either needed to complete a different form of education or wait until I was a mature-age student. I chose the latter. However, this came with its own struggles. I wasn't conditioned to studying, I had never written an essay and I lived out of home and needed to work. None of these things prevented me from applying, but it was a more difficult experience than if I had entered straight from high school.

My motivation to join the DEAP team was initially money. This motivation very quickly changed once I gained an appreciation for what DEAP was trying to achieve. The best way I can explain how my motivation changed is by the words I frequently would say, 'I feel guilty getting paid' because as much as I put into the role, I felt like I got more back. I couldn't ask for more than giving back to the community while learning valuable skills myself. Being in the MoD squad defined my entire time at university. I learnt so much about myself, to such an extent that it altered what I studied and where I took my career. It made me more aware of inequality and chances for making the world a more equitable and inclusive experience for everyone. I can say with all certainty I wouldn't be who I am today without my experience as a MoD.'

Erica's advice for young people?
'Take risks and don't be afraid of being different. There are so many opportunities out there, and they will be there for the rest of your life. Take those risks that will make you happy and bring joy to your life.'

Brittany is currently in her fourth year of teaching in a secondary school. She was recently promoted to the role of Leader of Science and STEM. 'I completed VCE at a Catholic College in South Gippsland. Being at a rural school, subject choices were limited, and it was difficult to find information about careers, other than what was present in the community. On the flip side, it was wonderful to complete VCE in such a close-knit community, as everyone looked out for everyone, resulting in me receiving a scholarship to attend university due to academic achievement.

I was looking for an opportunity to work with students when I came across the DEAP role. I knew it was perfect for me because I have always been very passionate about providing young people with all the information they need, to make an informed career choice, an opportunity that was lacking when I was in high school.

After experiencing such a positive and safe environment within the DEAP workplace, I now emulate this in my own work so that students and staff know that they are always safe and included by me.'

Brittany's advice for young people?
'Don't be afraid to try something new because you may find that it will change your life!'