Dean Duncan is an Aboriginal education specialist and a Sunbury local who has involved himself in a number of community projects. He spoke with Oliver Lees after he received the Hume Resident of the Month Award earlier this month.
What is your connection to Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges?
As an ex-serviceman, I attend the Anzac Day commemorations where possible, whilst also being a board member of Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation. This allows me to connect with local businesses, community leaders and other people to provide assistance, not only to our Aboriginal community members, but also extending our support to the broader community. I also volunteer on the Hume council Reconciliation Action Plan Advisory Group, the Sunbury Cultural Precinct Advisory Group, as well as ensuring I make myself available to assist others who reach out.
Can you tell me about the work you do in Aboriginal education?
In my previous role as executive director of education and during my time as a senior lecturer with Australian Catholic University, I was able to promote and encourage many Aboriginal community members to successfully undertake tertiary studies through to graduation and assisting them in reaching their aspirations in professional roles.
My current role of First Nations director, YLab – Foundations for Young Australians, has enabled me to continue that passion by encouraging companies in both the private and government sectors to engage with young Australians of all backgrounds and ethnicity. The work we contribute to will change the future for young Australians and lay the foundations for greater opportunities for our nation. The knowledge and potential within many young Australians can be harnessed in a way which empowers them to become the leaders and designers of fantastic new directions, projects and initiatives. This includes public representatives, academics, inventors, scientists and all other professions. The basis of these achievements will always be education and support to reach individual goals and expectations of the community.
How have you applied your work within the community?
My experiences within the professional sectors of education and human services have allowed me to transfer my personal values and passion for learning to those around me in the community. This includes lots of young Australians who sadly have lived experience of the out of home care system and homelessness. By supporting them to overcome barriers and obstacles, I ensure I engage as many community members on a journey of providing meaningful change. This is no more evident than the important work I do through both the Sunbury Aboriginal Corporation and the Victorian Mental Health Complaints Commission. Both are wonderful organisations which extend their services and support to those who need it at the most critical times in their lives.
What drives you to help your community?
Helping others who need simple, small things will always be a driving factor for me to reach out to others in positions which can contribute to a better society and stronger close knit Sunbury, and a greater Hume environment.
