WINGHAM’S brightest were recognised for their contribution to the Wingham community and commitment to their personal development by the Rotary Youth of the Year awards.
Sarah Fotheringham, Nick Thompson and Kathryn Lynch all participated in the Mass Potential Program sponsored by Taree RSL.
The community program ran for 22 weeks and was open to all local high schools. It called for young people to nominate themselves for the program and commit to the busy program.
Accepted students were coached on leadership and personal skills and assigned a mentor from the community to assist them with their goals.
The program had two components. The first was to make a movie promoting the program. The second was to identify a problem or need in the community and to address that need.
The program required a considerable investment of time for the then year 11 students who were at a critical time of study before the HSC.
Nick Thompson’s work experience at Wingham Public school was the catalyst of his community project. He realised that reading and creativity were vital to young students so decided to lend a hand. Nick worked with students in year one and two developing their reading skills. He also incorporated his artistic talents holding art workshops for the children.
The program was a great experience for Nick who enjoyed working with his mentor.
“It felt really good contributing to the community and was a good lead up to being elected as school captain,” Nick said.
Sarah Fotheringham’s mentor was Felicity Leberman, a teacher from Chatham High. Her expertise in study and motivation was an advantage for Sarah before studying for year 12.
Sarah discovered that Wingham was in need of a defibrillator that could be easily accessed in the event of a cardiac emergency. She identified that Wingham Pool had one, but was closed for half of the year, so she set out to raise funds for a machine that could be used by everyone in the community.
Sarah tirelessly fundraised through raffles and by approaching local businesses to meet her goal of $3000. Ex-Wingham local, Jamie Greenaway, donated the remainder of the sum so Sarah could meet her goal.
“I really enjoyed the program and realised what I was capable of,” Sarah said.
Kathryn Lynch learnt valuable life skills in the program which was based on the idea that, if young people have good roots, confidence and a strong grip on morals, they will succeed in life.
Her mentor was Mrs Fotheringham from Wingham who supported Kathryn along the journey and helped to develop her confidence and assertiveness.
Kathryn was visiting her great aunty at Alma Place and found that, although the residents were kept busy with activities, many had a love of music that they could not express. Katherine sourced a keyboard that could be used by the residents. They now enjoy playing music and regular singing.
“It was really great to discuss things that could be problems and issues in the community. Once you start looking, there are many ways you can start being helpful,” Kathryn said. “It’s crazy to think that even though we are school kids, we are valuable in the community and can help people.”
The three students finished their HSC last year, and with a proven commitment to their community, will surely succeed in their future endeavours.
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