Verna Gao
Sydney,NSW
Summary
I am a compassionate worker with extensive experience in case management experience, and a strong ability to establish trust with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I possess considerable proficiency in case planning and activity management, ensuring high-quality care for children and their guardians. I am dedicated to fostering supportive environments that promote positive outcomes.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Volunteer
Welfare House
DaQing, Heilongjiang
01.2020 - 06.2020
- Organised group activities that encouraged teamwork and self-esteem, helping children develop positive peer relationships.
- Conducted interactive educational activities to children, helped children build essential life skills and resilience.
- Calmly supported children during emotional outbursts, using gentle communication to comfort them, and guide healthier ways to express emotions.
- Collaborated with social workers, psychologists, and caregivers to develop support plans for children.
- Maintained detailed records of each child’s educational achievements, behavioral changes, and psychological growth.
- Reported findings to supervisors and external agencies, providing insights for ongoing support strategies.
- Greeted visitors upon arrival at the office, answered phone calls, and responded to emails.
- Maintained online presence with regular updates on Welfare House's activities.
- Provided guidance and support to fellow volunteers during their shifts.
Volunteer
Georges Vanier Secondary School
Toronto, Ontario
06.2017 - 11.2018
- Volunteered in high school for children with mental disabilities and autism, supporting their activities.
- Enhanced communication proficiency and cultural sensitivity through autism support strategy education.
- Helped establish a stable and trusting communication channel between families and the school, enhancing family engagement in the support process.
- Monitored specific children's developmental progress and shared relevant updates with families when necessary.
- Contributed to school-organised activities, facilitating family involvement.
- Joined the communication group with the parents, leveraging my shared cultural background to facilitate a more understanding conversation.
- Used my own experience as an asian international student to help bridge cultural differences with families who have similar culture background.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of New South Wales
Sydney, NSW05-2025
Skills
- Multilingual (English and Mandarin)
- Cultural awareness
- Child psychology knowledge
- Forensic Psychology
- Disability awareness
- Childcare experience
- Conflict Resolution
- Australian Driver’s License
- Computer skills
- Record keeping and report writing
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Social media management
- Event setup
- Friendly and empathetic
- Compassionate and understanding
- Skilled in building rapport
- Community engagement
- Photography and videography
Languages
English
Professional
Chinese (Mandarin)
Native/ Bilingual
Certification
- Primary-Level Psychotherapist Certification by the National Health Commission of China
- Child Protection Training
- Australian Driver License
Affiliations
- Piano: Level 6, with over 15 years of consistent practice and performances.
- Painting: Skilled in painting and have completed several projects, dedicating weekly time to creative pursuits.
- Sports: Member of skiing club for 4 years
- Cultural exploration: Broaden cultural understanding (now is exploring Indian culture and Australian history)
- Blogging and writing: Managed a personal blog on topics of psychology, consistently publishing content.
- Meditation and Mindfulness: Incorporated mindfulness practices daily to manage stress and maintain mental well-being.
Questions for the interview panel
- Can you describe the training and support provided to new Child Safety Officers, particularly in relation to managing complex cases and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?
- How does the department measure the success of its child protection interventions, and what opportunities are there for Child Safety Officers to contribute to the development and improvement of these practices?
Timeline
Volunteer
Welfare House
01.2020 - 06.2020
Volunteer
Georges Vanier Secondary School
06.2017 - 11.2018
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of New South Wales
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