Ellie Simmons
Alice Springs,NT
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate youth worker with four years of experience serving remote Aboriginal communities. Proficient in designing and implementing diverse programs within educational environments, aimed at enhancing student attendance and fostering social and emotional well-being. Recognised for establishing trusting rapport with vulnerable youth, facilitating skill development through engaging activities, and delivering impactful life lessons. Skilled in managing concurrent projects with precision, cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, and providing culturally sensitive and trauma-informed support to both staff and families
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
SCfC Youth Program Director
Wanta Aboriginal Corporation
04.2022 - Current
- Efficient Logistics Oversight: Managed daily program logistics of up to five programs including scheduling, supplies, activity planning, room set up, and resource development, ensuring seamless operations for optimal program delivery and maximal impact.
- Personalised Mentorship: Provided tailored guidance and support to participants, individually and in small groups, addressing curriculum challenges and nurturing their social and emotional well-being amidst life's obstacles.
- Empowering Indigenous Staff: Offered leadership, support, and developmental opportunities to a team of four indigenous staff members, fostering their professional growth and enhancing program effectiveness.
- Strategic Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborated with community stakeholders to forge partnerships, diversifying program offerings with organisations such as Congress, MacYouth, Hermannsburg Potters, and Ntaria School, enriching participant experiences.
- Excursion Coordination and Logistics Management: Organised local, intrastate, and interstate excursions, expanding participants' horizons and fostering personal growth. Coordinated all logistics for meals, transportation, and activity delivery to ensure smooth excursion operations and participants safety and wellbeing.
- Budget Management: Managed budget allocations responsibly, contracts totalling $800,000, optimising fund utilisation for maximum program impact while adhering to financial constraints.
- Community Advocacy and Referral: Advocated for participant needs and interests by actively engaging in relevant community meetings, events, and initiatives. Effectively referred young people to appropriate team members, community agencies, and organisations to address treatment needs.
Youth Program Director
Wanta Aboriginal Corporation
01.2020 - 04.2022
- Program Development and Implementation: Spearheaded the development and execution of what is now known as Wanta's 'Brighter Futures Program', a multifaceted program tailored to the unique needs of Kalkaringi community, resulting in increased school attendance of up to 70%, decreased youth anti-social behaviour as reported by Police, and improved holistic well-being within school settings as noted by teachers and families.
- Project Management: Demonstrated exceptional organisational prowess by effectively and simultaneously managing and exceeding obligations of seven contracts per year, ensuring seamless coordination and execution while maintaining a high level of precision and attention to detail.
- Relationship Building and Mentorship: Established deep, trust-based relationships with vulnerable youth, serving as a role model and mentor while imparting essential life skills and knowledge through a diverse range of engaging activities and experiences.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivated and nurtured robust relationships with stakeholders, including community members, educators, external organisations, and families, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at achieving shared goals and objectives.
- Cultural Competency and Support: Provided culturally sensitive and trauma-informed support to both staff and young people, incorporating a deep understanding and respect of Aboriginal culture, language, and community dynamics to facilitate effective communication and holistic support services. Enhanced participant retention by actively soliciting feedback from youth and community, incorporating their input into future programming to better meet their needs and interests.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sport And Exercise Science
Loughborough University
United Kingdom07.2018
Skills
- Stakeholder Relations
- Program Planning and Implementation
- Staff Management
- Program Finance Management
- Cross-cultural Competency
- Trauma Informed Practice
Certification
- Light Rigid Drivers Licence
- Working With Children Check
- Police Check (UK and Australia)
- 4WD certification
- First Aid
- Mental Health First Aid
- Rhythm2Recovery Certification
Timeline
SCfC Youth Program Director
Wanta Aboriginal Corporation
04.2022 - Current
Youth Program Director
Wanta Aboriginal Corporation
01.2020 - 04.2022
Bachelor of Science - Sport And Exercise Science
Loughborough University
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