Seven TAFE NSW students have showcased their new event management skills to raise more than $3,500 for youth homelessness charity Youth Off The Streets, continuing the institution’s fundraising legacy.
It is the 19th year that TAFE NSW Ultimo Diploma in Event Management students have chosen to donate funds to the charity as part of their studies. In that time, they have contributed $259,000.
“Seven of us designed and delivered our event, ‘A Night in the 2000s’, in three months, with no prior event management experience except for what we’d learned in the classroom at TAFE NSW,” said TAFE NSW student Nigel Santos, who was the event’s entertainment and activity manager.
“We were each responsible for finding sponsors so that the entirety of the funds raised could go to Youth Off The Streets.
“Getting to see the smiles on the attendees’ faces on the night made all our planning worth it. It’s made me excited about working in the industry and helped me see the value I can bring to future employers.”
TAFE NSW head teacher of events Crystal Magnus said the students have demonstrated all the skills required to succeed in the events industry.
“Our Diploma of Events Management students deliver an event for a charity for their final assessment, so they can use their skills for a good cause while getting to work with a real-life client,” she said.
“The students have entire creative licensing over every aspect of the event, giving them invaluable experience in decision-making, budgeting, working in a team and understanding the needs of their client.”
Youth Off The Streets fundraising coordinator Peta Gillis said the funds will be put towards a number of programs to support young people experiencing homelessness.
“We’re very grateful for the support of the TAFE NSW Ultimo Events faculty over the past decade,” she said.
“The money the students raised at this event will contribute to a pool of funding that supports programs like our Homelessness and Housing service, which includes casework for young people experiencing homelessness, life skills programs and education and employment services.”
