Talking: Aylah Hall chatting with Lindi Cardamone.
Sushi, butter chicken and dumplings were some of the dishes served up to participants of the SEAT (sit, eat and talk) program.
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An initiative of the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, SEAT provided Year 6 students from Mooroopna Primary School with the chance to connect with volunteer mentors, once a week, over lunch.
The program’s purpose is to develop the student’s confidence and career aspirations, which Lighthouse staff member and program co-ordinator Belinda Senini said was particularly important as these young people transitioned to secondary school.
“Connecting with positive role models is an excellent way for the students to practise their social skills while also learning about a variety of careers on offer in our region,” Ms Senini said.
Additionally, the program exposes students to new and healthy food.
“The lunch provided is a highlight for both students and mentors, and of course, food is a great way to bring everyone together,” Ms Senini said.
SEAT volunteer Kimberley Chu was one of nine mentors to take part in the program, which commenced at the start of term four.
“The students and I had some wonderful conversations about everything in life and shared lots of laughter,’’ Ms Chu said.
“I hope our talks will help them understand there are endless possibilities, and they can be whoever they want to be.’’
Lighthouse offers a range of volunteer opportunities.
Breaking down barriers: Chelsea Turner and Constable Anna Kneebone.
Learning to communicate: Ethan Barrette chats with Ange Andreadis.
Lunch catch up: Tahlia Silvey shares a meal with Kimberley Chu and Jonathon Cooper-Franklin.
Listening: Lindi Cardamone chats with Aylah Hall.
Vital: Volunteer Troy Tremellen chats with Damon Wall.
Learning from others: Jonathon Cooper-Franklin listens to Tahlia Silvey.
Volunteers of all ages: Ashley Legg chats with social work student Kristy Minotti.
Hearing from everyone: Chelsea Turner chatting with Aylah Hall and Lindi Cardamone.
Work done: Emilia Grieve completes a task with Sonia Priestly.
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