Mission Australia hosted trainer Nikki Thompson and the Changing Gears program at their Dandenong Headquarters last week. This was facilitated with the support of Program Managers Chol and Mario.
Participant Hazarah, (Hazi), was eager to learn the road rules and to start learning to drive. However, trainer Nikki explained, a “safety-first” attitude and proactive driving behaviours were job number one to learn before progressing to the road rules.
Hazi’s amazing attitude
Along with understanding good driving behaviour, the rules of uncontrolled and controlled intersections and other road rules, there was plenty of time for other discussions. Hazi, Chol, Mario and trainer Nikki had a wonderful chat about Hazi’s experiences as a young Muslim refugee and the role of women in Malaysian, Indian, African and New Zealand societies. The group learnt that Hazi was a determined young woman who is passionate about social justice.
Expect and celebrate success when you put in the work
By lunch time of the third day, Hazi was achieving practice scores in the 90s and trainer Nikki was very confident of her success.
“Hazi is really determined. She can expect success for all her hard work,” Nikki commented.
VicRoads empowers
On the final day, the group arrived at VicRoads, Seaford, customer service team member, Lisa remembered previous Changing Gears program groups and, along with Team Leader Cassie, was really supportive and encouraging.
Hazi couldn’t believe how quickly she passed the visual test.
“You’ve passed the first section already!” Nikki said, high fiving her determined student.
Hazi entered the testing room assisted by Cassie. Just as quickly, she emerged victorious.
“Congratulations, you’ve passed,” Cassie smiled as she gave Hazi her paperwork.
Pictured from left: Mission Australia’s Program Manager Mario with trainer Nikki, Hazarah (Hazi) and Seaford’s customer service team
member Lisa.
Changing Gears would like to thank Manager Sandra, Cassie, Lisa and the staff at VicRoads Seaford for their amazing, ongoing support of lovely and determined students like Hazarah. We’d also like to thank Mission Australia’s Chol and Mario, and Hazi’s driver Angie for their hard work. What they do makes the Changing Gears program possible.
Possibilities open up
Driving opens up so many possibilities for disadvantaged young people. Classes are supportive, students and trainers inspire each other, showing the way for young people to overcome their obstacles to driving and experience success.
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Call 1-800-766-361 to find out about your nearest Changing Gears learner permit program.