Swinburne alumna appointed Humanitarian Affairs Youth Ambassador
In Summary
A passion for helping those in need has led to Swinburne alumna Liz Rodriguez being appointed a Humanitarian Affairs Youth Ambassador by the international organisation, Humanitarian Affairs United Kingdom.
The Humanitarian Affairs United Kingdom is based in London and is a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations and the World Alliance for Citizens Participation.
Through its youth ambassador program Humanitarian Affairs UK identifies the next generation of leaders and helps them to become citizens with a global mindset and an in-depth understanding of the plight of the poor.
Ms Rodriguez said the role would provide her with opportunities to engage in humanitarian service and develop a commitment to helping others.
“Humanitarian Affairs UK has placed great trust in me to represent it in Australia, and being appointed an ambassador is a privilege,” Ms Rodriguez said.
“The role comes with the responsibility and commitment of being a role model for other young people working in volunteer and humanitarian programs.
“I want to be able to work in different social projects and to develop projects that reach out to communities in need.
“As part of my new role I will be promoting Humanitarian Affairs UK programs in Australia and internationally.”
Ms Rodriguez, who studied International Business at Swinburne and graduated at the end of 2013, wants to eventually work in fund raising and marketing for a non-profit organisation.
“I like working closely with people, especially those in need, and this opportunity will give me a chance to do that,” Ms Rodriguez said.
Her appointment comes after she and fellow Swinburne students Ishaku Lemu Haruna, Karuna Santosa and Denny Thomas attended the University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Manila last year. The symposium focused on international humanitarian leadership and poverty.
Ms Rodriguez’s appointment as a youth ambassador is initially for 12 months, but may be extended for a further two years.
Humanitarian Affairs UK initiates and supports humanitarian relief efforts and development programmes in countries that are poverty-stricken and disaster-prone.