I have just finished a wonderful book, The Beekeeper of Aleppo, by Christy Lefteri. While the book itself is a work of fiction, it was written after the author spent time volunteering in a UNICEF-supported refugee centre in Athens. During this time, she met displaced people from Syria and Afghanistan and whose stories form the basis of her book. The novel was an insight into the plight of those who can no longer live in their country of birth, and the huge sacrifices they must make to survive. One family she worked with had been forced to place their trust in smugglers, parting with everything they had, only to find themselves arrested and thrown into prison for unlawful arrival in their destination country. If it were not for the refugee support organisations, the churches that play a pivotal role in resettlement and the tireless work and advocacy of the volunteers who work in this space, the traumatic lives of these people would be even harder.
CGGS has a long history of volunteering around Canberra. All Year 9 students are enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze program, and more than 40 students from other year groups are in the Silver and Gold programs. Those in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) and students who are supporting various charitable organisations also donate their time freely every week. We work with our students to recognise the privileged position they have here, and we support them in donating their time where they can. We are continually improving our Service offerings, and if you know of organisations or opportunities where our girls might make a difference, please let me know.
Earlier in the week, the Senior Council met with Marco from FocusACT to hear more about his organisation’s work with displaced members of the Canberra community. He spoke of their work in providing housing where there is a need and the considerations they must make when providing this service. FocusACT is the chosen charity for the Senior Council in 2022, and to date, over $8000 has been raised by the School. At our last assembly, we presented Marco with the cheque, and he returned to let us know how this money would be used in the organisation. In a similar vein to refugees, his organisation provides shelter and support for members of the Canberra community who cannot do this themselves. They also support families with children with disabilities, including working with parents to support their children to live their best lives. Below is a picture of the Senior Council presenting Marco with the cheque.
Wishing you all a stress-free Week 8, and for our Year 8 students a wonderful camp in the snow in Week 9.
Ms Joanna Leaman
Acting Deputy Principal (Head of Senior School)
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Student Council presenting Marco from FocusACT with funds raised for the organisation.