Colleen has passion to learn
Colleen Forbes from Community College Gippsland is among six finalists from across Victoria nominated for their achievements in establishing pathways for themselves into further education, employment or volunteer roles.
The Warragul woman has been nominated for The Ro Allen Award – recognising preaccredited learner excellence.
An indigenous woman of the Kurnai clan, she grew up in Lake Tyers. Things changed when she attended a school outside the settlement where she experienced bullying and racism.
Colleen attended Warragul Technical School, but finding it difficult to focus on learning, she left school at 15-years-old to take up a traineeship in hospitality.
The sudden death of her husband and brother got her thinking there must be a better life worth striving for, especially for the sake of her daughter.
In 2019, with courage and determination, she undertook a Learn Local Kickstart in hospitality and retail course at Community College Gippsland.
In the beginning of the six-week program of pre-accredited and accredited learning, Colleen’s confidence was low.
Now she’s happily employed and flourishing at the checkout at Woolworths.
Colleen has completed many facets of hospitality including waitressing, a responsible serving of alcohol course, barista course and cooking. She is now setting her sights on gaining her gaming certificate.
“I lacked self-confidence and struggled to concentrate but the Community College and teachers have brought out the best in me.
“I thank God every day that something like this can happen to me. I am doing it for my future and I am doing it for my daughter,” she said.
Colleen said she was honoured to be nominated for the award, saying she was proud to represent Gippsland and her indigenous heritage.
Colleen is passionate about learning. She loves being part of a team that helps people and is exploring leadership opportunities within the company. The positive learning experience also ignited a long-term goal of becoming a Koorie educator and advocate.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing congratulated Ms Forbes on being a finalist and doing “so much great work in the Warragul community.”