A group of professional Aboriginal women in key community positions are going back to TAFE to receive formal recognition for work they are already doing.

As a direct response to demand and interest from within the local Aboriginal community it was recognised that many professionals wanted to formalise their skills with a qualification. In some instances this was also preventing the capacity to progress and compete for higher positions.

As a result, a customised version of the Diploma in Management is now being delivered at the Kempsey Campus, North Coast TAFE and asks students to use examples based on their own ‘real life’ experiences both at work and home.

Attendees on the first day of class included community services managers, clinical managers, project officers and executive officers from across the Mid North Coast region and all were enthusiastic about the course.
 
“I have always been in management positions in both the public and private sectors, but most of my training has been in-house. Completing the Diploma at TAFE will not only provide me with formal qualification, but it’s a great opportunity to network and collaborate with other professional Aboriginal women,” said participant Cindy O’Brien.

As the course is culturally appropriate and specifically designed for Aboriginal women already achieving success, the community also hopes to promote graduates as strong female role models to encourage aspirations and confidence in younger women wanting to reach their goals.

Participants will celebrate their graduation in July 2012.