FUTURE FORTE (2022 - Present)

I first learned about the Future Forte organisation in 2022, back when it was called Future  Female. I discovered the organisation's annual conference through social media ​while searching for volunteer opportunities. This became my first volunteer involvement in Australia after many volunteering experiences in Sri Lanka and internationally. ​Volunteering for the  Future Female conference was special for two reasons: it was my first time volunteering in  Australia, and I decided to volunteer during a period when I ​was struggling with low self-esteem due to personal challenges. Initially, I had doubts and fears about my first volunteering experience in Australia. However, volunteering at ​the conference transformed my life. It gave me hope and a renewed sense of purpose. Listening to speeches from diverse groups, including leading women and international ​students actively involved in helping others, was inspiring.  They shared their struggles and how they overcame them, demonstrating hard work and  dedication to uplifting ​others. This experience shifted my mindset positively.

 

Fast forward to 2023, I felt compelled to contribute more to this wonderful community. I  reached out to the founder of Future Forte and joined the Empower Volunteer ​Program, a  unique platform that enhances the personal and professional growth of international students.  Initially, I planned to volunteer and participate in the sessions. ​However, my role evolved when  I was asked to become a program assistant and conduct a public speaking and confidence building session.

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This opportunity demonstrated the community's belief in my strengths and  capabilities, and the positive feedback from the session boosted my confidence and encouraged  ​me to contribute more. I co-conducted another capacity-building session with the Empower  Program Coordinator, which was a fantastic learning opportunity and a platform ​to share my  knowledge. From then on, I joined numerous projects and events that allowed me to support  international student communities around Victoria.

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My involvement at Future Forte includes organising the Future Forte Conference, mentoring student speakers,  coordinating partnerships, and engaging in marketing and content creation. ​Currently, I  volunteer as a Marketing and Program Assistant at Future Forte. As a Marketing and  Communications Assistant, I introduced a new project initiative called ​"Future Forte Friends  Corner," where we recognise student stories and experiences in Australia. Additionally, I am  part of a video project aimed at raising awareness of ​international students' journeys,  experiences, and challenges in a creative way. Future Forte has also provided me the  opportunity to become a student representative for ​Museums Victoria's inclusive initiatives.

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At the end of the Empower Volunteer Program, I was awarded a Certificate of Excellence for my  contributions and support for international students. Throughout this ​journey, my leadership  and interpersonal skills have greatly improved. Organising events, mentoring peers, and  leading sessions have enhanced my ability to lead and ​communicate effectively. I am excited  about our upcoming Future Forte Conference and look forward to contributing even more to  this vibrant community.