The Idea
The initial idea and concept for creating a girls leadership and mentoring program was first discussed and then launched at the end of 2018.
The Aim
The Galiyanha program’s aim is to create an active and meaningful relationship between empowered women within the local community and students from Years 10, 11 and 12.
As one of the founding members of this program I am so excited to see how the future workshops develop but from the success of our first session on Wednesday 15 May, I think our objectives and goals will be easily achieved. I feel strongly that positive connections and lasting relationships will be formed as a result of this program. All of the women within our mentoring program bring individual qualities, strengths and experiences that they are open to share with the students and I think this imparting and sharing of such valuable dialogue will help the girls to feel supported and enlightened as they prepare to leave school and face all of the exciting prospects and also the challenges that lay ahead for them in the future.
Through the variety of sessions on offer the girls will surely develop and foster a stronger sense of self-worth, empowerment and confidence which can only help them in the path ahead.
“A woman who is not afraid to stand out in the crowd for all the right reasons is a very powerful and exciting prospect.” Karen Creith
The first session held on 15 May was run by Rebecca Ryan (PHS Girls Advisor). The aim of the session was for all students to learn how to work as a team, encourage and provide support for each other. Seven teams were put together and the task was for each group to design a formal dress out of toilet paper. “It was lovely to walk around the hall and see each team member shine their beautiful colours, enjoy each other’s company and most of all have fun”. The session was finished with a fashion parade to praise each group’s final design.
It was an honour to have been able to work with such sophisticated and intelligent young women of Parkes High School. I look forward to the next five sessions that will be held throughout the year.
- Rebecca Ryan
