Educating for Justice Seminar

After a four year break, we were happy to be back at Amberly for our Kildare Ministries Social Justice Retreat. Our schools from Victoria, NSW and SA came together to discuss ways to address social injustice and inequality with Courage and Compassion.

Our understanding of Advocacy, Activism and Action was enhanced by the expertise and wisdom of our guest speakers. We had the honor of hearing from: Judy Ryan OAM  an Author, Activist and Advocate for those suffering from addiction and drug dependency. Michael McGirr, Mission Facilitator at Caritas Australia and Thenu Herach, CEO Oaktree. The common theme from all of our experts is to be a ‘lifelong learner, to find out the facts, to be compassionate and to have the courage to take action in an array of many different ways.’ 

Some of the students reflected on their experience on the seminar:

Over the last three days the three Living Justice Captains from Kildare College got to partake in an amazing Social Justice conference with other Kildare Ministries students from around Australia. We covered social justice issues at both a local and national level, strategies, and considered and expanded on other student lead initiatives. We listened to passionate and engaging guest speakers, who all challenged us to think about the social justice fight. We have learned how to embrace authenticity when leading and standing up for what we believe in, especially in our fight for those who are most vulnerable in society. We enjoyed hearing from other schools in their fight for justice, and how they are also acting as game changers. The friendship, discussions, connections, and ideas will stay with us, and we will bring them back to our Adelaide community at Kildare College. Above all, we learnt that we are lifelong learners and that we should never underestimate our powers as young leaders.  

Catherine, Laura, Ivanna and Megha - Kildare College

Upon arriving the camp, we were greeted by friendly unfamiliar faces. Little did we know, we would cherish these new faces deeply. As leaders, we were able to take part in a camp that allowed youth like us, to gain insight and recognise our true abilities and potential in promoting justice. Listening to the many guest speakers who held powerful, inspiring stories, we were able to understand how much of an impact one can hold. A single seed can blossom into something that houses strength and independent like that of a tree. 

Isabelle Luong - Killester College

Thank you to all involved for making this such a successful, enriching experience for our students.