At the ripe old age of 18, having recently completed her VCE Vocational Major, Danika Woods could happily rest on her laurels. But that couldn’t be further from the case. She wants to give back to her community in the most effective way possible – by providing much-needed to support to the people who need it the most.
The year 2024 looks like it’s going to be pretty full for Danika Woods. About to start her Certificate III in Disability at TAFE Gippsland, Danika was also recently awarded East Gippsland Young Citizen of the Year award – recognised by her community as ‘an outstanding role model’ and as someone who ‘exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity’.
East Gippsland Shire Councillor Jane Greacen with 2024 Young Citizen of the Year joint winners Danika Woods (centre) and Jasmine Westaway.
So, what got Danika to this point and where to from here?
“I completed the Project Ready, Certificate II in Active Volunteering whilst studying my VCE Vocational Major 2022. The program helped so much with building my confidence and got me prepared for my future life and so much more,” Danika said.
“Although I had already finished the certificate, I decided to back the following year, this time as a mentor to help disengaged students prepare for life outside of school and build their confidence in their work. It was challenging but worth it.”
Project Ready is a full-year work readiness and personal development program incorporating CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering. Essentially, it’s fun vocational education and training helps students complete their VCE Vocational Major and get job ready at the same time.
But in Danika’s opinion, it’s much more than that.
“The people I worked with really help build students confidence and helped them prepare for the outside world,” Danika explained.
“I also did a little bit of work with some of the senior students from the specialist school and I enjoyed assisting and supporting them with their work.”
Having experienced obstacles in her own learning environment due to extremely high anxiety, Danika’s selflessness and commitment to helping others was even more commendable.
Everyone who crosses paths with Danika agree she’s extremely deserving of her award, not only showing her dedication to continuous learning but also her understanding of the importance of creating a supportive environment for skill development.
Head of Schools Educational Delivery Mandy Holmes said TAFE Gippsland is extremely lucky to be gaining Danika as a student in 2024.
“I first met Danika when she was in Year 11 and I was teaching VCE Vocational Major at Bairnsdale Secondary College,” Mandy said.
“Although she really struggled herself, particularly with high anxiety, she was always extremely caring and considerate of other students.
“It has been amazing watching her courage grow and so special seeing how much she has helped and supported others along the journey. We are so proud of Danika and can’t wait to see where the next stage in her journey takes her.”
While Danika’s still unsure of what her next step will be, she’s certain of one thing.
“I’m looking forward to being able to learn about something I’m passionate about,” Danika said.
“Also being able to study online so I can learn at home and be focused on my studies and over priorities. I’m not sure what I’ll do next yet, but I will either continue my studies next year or go to work in the field.”