Lisa Rogers
This month, we’re yarnin’ with Lisa Rogers from the NT about how ICAN Learn’s First Nations Scholarship CHCSS00084 Lead and Support Colleagues empowers her work and helps create strong, self-sufficient remote communities.
Hi Lisa, welcome to The Yarn!
First up, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I am a proud mother – and grandmother to a 4-year-old boy. I am currently working as a Training Officer for MoneyMob Talkabout based in Darwin, but my Country is Wurundjeri, which falls under the Gulinj Nation.
I’m part of a new program focused on Financial Literacy training for First Nations people with low numeracy and literacy skills. In addition to this, I’m also a trainer for the ANZ Money Business program. I took an 18-year break from studying, but now I’m highly motivated and in the perfect stage of my life to continue learning.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
A typical day for me involves working closely with First Nations communities, providing financial literacy training tailored to their needs. I spend a lot of time preparing and delivering training sessions. My work often takes me to remote areas, so my day can vary depending on where I am and who I’m working with. I’m about to head off to WA, NT, and SA for four weeks, so I get to experience beautiful places on Country. I’m lucky to have a very supportive partner – I often joke that I do a lot of remote work to keep the spark alive between us!
What inspired you to enrol in ICAN Learn’s First Nations Scholarship CHCSS00084 Lead and Support Colleagues?
In my later years, I have become passionate about education and empowering others, especially within my community. The opportunity to further develop my skills in supporting colleagues, particularly within a First Nations context, really connected with me. This course seemed like the perfect way to enhance my ability to lead and support others in the field of financial literacy.
What has been your biggest takeaway or surprise about the course so far?
My biggest takeaway has been how much I’ve learned about leadership and support in a culturally appropriate way. It’s been eye-opening to see the different strategies and approaches that can be used, especially in challenging environments. I am already putting my new knowledge into action, and I am only two-thirds of the way through the course.
How do you expect your new skill set to help you in the workplace?
I expect these new skills will enhance my ability to mentor and support my colleagues, particularly those new to the field or facing challenges in their roles. It will also help me be a more effective leader, ensuring that our training programs are delivered in a culturally sensitive and supportive way.
Over the past two days, I had the opportunity to facilitate training for university graduates in an NT program. The skills I’ve acquired have proven invaluable in this experience. For example, one participant shared that my supportive and understanding approach helped them feel more confident about completing their presentation in front of the other 18 participants.
What career opportunities do you think the skillset will provide?
My manager is promoting me to a team leader role because of my eagerness to continue my studies and professional growth. This promotion is credited to the skills I’ve developed through the deadly First Nations Scholarship opportunities offered by Commbank and ICAN Learn.
Can you tell us a bit about your study experience with ICAN Learn?
My experience with ICAN Learn has been fantastic. They are incredibly understanding of the demands of work-life balance, especially for someone like me who frequently travels remotely. They’ve been very supportive, making it much easier to manage my studies, personal life and work commitments. If you are studying or thinking of studying with ICAN Learn and you need help, just ask, they will bend over backwards to help you.
Why are ICAN Learn’s First Nations scholarships so important?
These scholarships are very important because they allow First Nations people to gain valuable skills and qualifications that can help them make a real difference in their communities. They empower individuals to take on leadership roles and support their colleagues, which is essential for building strong, self-sufficient communities. I know for a fact that I would not be able to study like I am if I were not able to access these scholarships. Most of us know studying can be expensive, and a lot of us don’t study because we have to look after our families.
What would you say to a First Nations person considering enrolling in one of our scholarships?
I would highly recommend that they take the plunge. The support and flexibility that ICAN Learn offers make it possible to manage your studies alongside your other commitments. It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills and positively impact your community. It also provides an opportunity to be an excellent and empowering role model for the younger generation.
Lastly, it’s the weekend, where will we find you?
You’ll most likely find me in my garden, enjoying some quiet time and getting my hands dirty, followed by housework and my ICAN studies. I do miss my daughter and grannie who live in Alice Springs though!
Need more information?
You can find out more about the CHCSS00084 Lead and Support Colleagues Scholarship here
Or check out all ICAN Learn scholarships here
ICAN Learn is here to help with your personal and corporate training needs. Reach out to us at:
E: administration@icanlearn.edu.au
T: 03 5471 7777
