‘It’s an experience I’ll never forget” - volunteering at RMIT Kirrip

‘It’s an experience I’ll never forget” - volunteering at RMIT Kirrip

From student volunteer to staff at RMIT Kirrip, Yastika reflects on her experience as a Kirrip steward.

Kirrip Steward applications are open! 

Kirrip Stewards are a group of passionate volunteers who help to foster inclusive, culturally safe and nurturing environments at RMIT University. 

Representing the four Kirrip guiding principles, stewards play a vital part in leading the Kirrip community. 

Yastika, student and former Kirrip Steward shares her experiences and learnings.

What skills have you developed as a Kirrip Steward?

Kirrip is a student-led community that hosts various events for students to explore Melbourne and learn more about the First Nations culture.

One of the most important skills I’ve learned is public speaking!

I usually don’t enjoy speaking to large groups of people but volunteering at Kirrip and being involved in such a positive and welcoming community has made me more confident and open to sharing my thoughts. 

RMIT Students Yastika Yastika enjoyed her time as a Kirrip Steward.

What does being a volunteer at Kirrip mean to you?

Pride in representing yourself!

Kirrip has made me prouder of my background and culture.

While volunteering here, I’ve had many opportunities to attend events that focus on educating people about the diverse cultures in Melbourne. I’ve gotten to meet so many people from different cultures with such rich histories!

Why do you think other students should consider being a Kirrip Steward?

It’s an experience that I think I would never forget.

I still remember how nervous I was on my first orientation day in June 2022.

For someone who was always socially awkward, I had mixed feelings about joining Kirrip.

But ever since my first day, I have not had to worry about being awkward, or trying to hide my true personality.

I found some of my closest friends and my best memories here and I would love for other students to experience the same in their own weird way.

Five RMIT Kirrip Stewards. Kirrip Steward applications are open until Monday 21 August.
Apply to become a Kirrip Steward
15 August 2023

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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