In the heart of Melbourne, Venice Gonzales, a Filipino mother of two, embarked on a journey that would transform her career and life. Venice moved to Melbourne in 2019, leaving behind a decade-long career as a loans officer in the Philippines. Faced with the challenges of being an international student in a new country, she found herself cleaning police stations – a significant change from her previous role. However, this experience opened new doors. Connecting with fellow Filipinos, Venice transitioned into the disability sector, obtaining a Cert III in Individual Support and working closely with people that have disabilities. This pivotal change broadened her perspective and ignited a passion for social work. Reflecting on this transition, Venice says, ‘This experience showed me that there is a bigger world out there and that everyone faces their own challenges.’
Venice’s journey was far from smooth. Relocating from Melbourne to Sydney, she faced financial burdens and the daunting task of balancing work, studies, and personal life. Despite these challenges, Venice’s story highlights the importance of community support. Her diverse network of Excelsia’s lecturers, classmates, family, and friends provided the encouragement and emotional support needed to persevere. Their belief in her abilities and their understanding of her struggles were central to her success. ‘Having a supportive network that understood my situation and encouraged me to excel played a crucial role in my journey,’ she shares.
Venice defines diversity as recognising our unique differences and experiences, while inclusion involves integrating these differences to ensure that everyone feels valued and respected. Her completion of the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) course, including her practical placement, deepened her understanding of these concepts. This prepared her to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and to create inclusive spaces within communities. ‘It involves creating a sense of belonging where everyone’s perspectives and contributions are welcomed and embraced,’ she explains. Excelsia’s diverse and inclusive environment promotes innovative thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving, enriching the overall learning experience. ‘When students feel accepted and valued for who they are, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their studies,’ Venice says.
As a member of the Student Representative Council (SRC) in 2023, Venice played a significant role in promoting cultural diversity and inclusion at Excelsia. Organising events like Harmony Day, she encouraged students to celebrate their cultural heritage and learn about others. These initiatives fostered a sense of belonging and respect among the student community, further contributing to an inclusive environment. ‘These activities were well-received, with high levels of participation, as they provided a platform for students to showcase their cultures and learn about others,’ she recalls.
Excelsia prioritises the cultivation of a diverse and inclusive community. By fostering cultural competence, students interact effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, enhancing their professional success. If you’re interested in exploring how our diverse network, inclusive events, and dedicated support systems can help you achieve your full potential, find out more here!
