Stephanie sits on the board of directors as the secretary.
How did you get involved with Laneway Learning?
For a while I was looking at volunteer opportunities where I could use my skills to help others with an organisation that aligned with my own beliefs and values. I decided to focus on community education not-for-profits and was lucky enough to come across an ad for the secretary position at Laneway Learning. After meeting with the team, I was lucky enough to be offered a position and am very excited to be part of this awesome organisation.
What is it about Laneway Learning that appeals to you?
I love that people can come and learn about so many different things at an affordable cost, whilst being able to meet new people and foster connections within our wonderful community. I also think that the variety of topics from business classes to drawing classes is great, as there is something for everyone.
What is your professional background?
I have been a corporate governance professional for over 8 years, working within multiple industries. I have been lucky to work with private and ASX listed companies within the engineering, health, energy, biotechnology and oil and gas industries, where I was able to foster my passion for governance, policy writing and compliance, which are vital areas required for running a successful organisation.
What other things are you involved in?
Outside of my normal 9 to 5 job, I currently volunteer as a policy developer for a not-for-profit organisation which works towards systematic change through health, education, social and economic development in Indigenous communities. I am also a board member for a not-for-profit community-managed organisation that provide formal education pathways for those who are pursuing a career, change of job or going on to further their education.
When not working or volunteering, I love travelling, reading, my two mini-dachshunds, baking (I try my best to be a dessert queen), watching a variety of sport, rollerblading and ice staking, and spending time with my friends and family.
What do you think of the Australian approach and attitude to education?
I think that the approach and attitude to education can really depend on where you live and your individual circumstances. Growing up in the outer suburbs of Melbourne, I was fortunate to be surrounded by people who inspired me to love to learn and to be able to have positive educational experiences in and outside of school. I think that it is great that there are opportunities for people to upskill and seek formal education in Victoria without burning a hole through their pockets, such as the free TAFE programs for priority courses, which helps reduce the financial barriers for students.
Is there something you wish you knew?
That is a hard one, there are so many things! Off the top of my head, I would love to be able to play the piano.
Have you ever failed at something at first, but eventually excelled after perseverance?
When I was younger, I was pretty bad at rollerblading – either falling backwards or forwards a lot which ended in lots of bruises! But my parents encouraged me to keep trying at it and eventually I was able to rollerblade without hanging onto the barriers for dear life. I still absolutely love rollerblading – I have even been able to teach my partner and a couple of friends to rollerblade.
The images used in this post belong to Stephanie Edkins