Asha Machin-Hunt

I completed an internship at IPPF while I was living/studying abroad in Fiji. This provided me the opportunity to work with young people, generate sexual reproductive health (SRH) IEC materials, share SRH success stories and conduct media analysis’ for the 9 member associations of the Pacific, among many other tasks. My time here built on my knowledge of SRH issues. Additionally, I will soon have completed an online course for Comprehensive Sexuality Education. Furthermore, being with IPPF has taught me how to work at a policy and advocacy level in addition to my experience working at grassroots.

I undertook my 2nd social work placement at RFHAF, assisting me in strengthening my knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and building my skills in health promotion. Undertaking placement in Fiji has given me more experience in working with people and communities of another culture to my own, increasing my cultural responsiveness. RFHAF has enabled me with the opportunity to deliver SRH awareness in many settings, including schools and remote villages through the Outreach Program. I am passionate about this work as I believe everyone should be able to make choices about their SRH without discrimination and having been provided high quality SRH information!

I have most recently been working at an after-school care centre. It is a fast-paced environment, that has taught me to make quick decisions and be more resilient.

• I am also required to perform duties in accordance with standards, policies and regulatory guidelines such as those set by the Department of Education, in order to promote a safe working environment for staff and children.
• In this role, I ensure that I am friendly, respectful and willing to help wherever needed. I also run many activities for the children to participate in.

I have been responsible for coaching all of the school hockey games and trainings for two teams. This involves significant planning to cater to the abilities of each year group in order to provide a positive learning experience for all.

I provide support to a young person with Tourette's Syndrome, through their NDIS package. This involves driving them to and from group activities and buying groceries. This job has helped me improve my communication skills and time management.

I completed a 6-month placement at Wesley Mission SHS, where I worked mainly in the role of a caseworker. This meant I assisted people experiencing homelessness in finding temporary or long-term accommodation, setting goals and navigating the various challenges they were facing. I also worked in the mental health team and the youth team.

During the school terms of 2021, I provided after school supervision for a 5 year old girl, with a hearing impairment. Working with her taught me to be flexible and innovative in my approach to support and learning. I was responsible for homework support and leisure activities.

I handmade a variety of soaps and beauty products which developed my skills in precision work, maintaining concentration and time management. This role made me more capable in following instructions, asking questions and problem-solving.