Meet Lewis
![](https://content.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-08/22-078%20VET%20Champions_Photo%20818x496_25.png)
About me
Name: Lewis Brown
Job: Reconciliation advisor at RMIT
VET: Certificate III in Community Services, Certificate IV in Community Services and a Diploma in Leadership and Management
Location: Reservoir
When I did my VET course, that’s when everything changed
My story
What do you do?
I help the university to include my 60,000 year old culture in their classes, I provide advice on the way that staff are hired; and generally inform day-to-day activities on campus. My job involves writing policies and I organise events for staff, students and alumni.
What was your VET journey?
I started with a Certificate III in Community Services, and this really opened the doors for my future.
I enjoyed working with the trainers so much that I enrolled in a Certificate IV in Community Services to learn more and that’s when my career started to take shape. I won the Victorian Training Awards Koorie Student of the Year which propelled me to bigger roles with more opportunities.
I’ve worked in the anti-gambling, family violence, homelessness, prisons and education sectors and it all started with the enormous opportunities available through VET.
What advice would you give to students who are considering a vocational pathway?
VET is such a supportive environment and offers so many opportunities. The trainers are really great and you can choose your own pathway. I recommend it!
What challenges did you face along the way?
I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I finished VCE and I didn’t think I’d be capable of further study. I tried different jobs and it took me some time to find VET.
Since I started my first VET course though, I’ve won two Student of the Year awards, provided advice to government ministers, and I’m now doing work that enriches me and my community.
![Lewis Brown – Reconciliation Advisor](https://content.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-06/22-078%20VET%20Champions_Photo%20818x4962.jpg)
Work hours?
9am-5pm Monday to Friday
Inside or outside?
Inside
Solo or teamwork?
I’m definitely part of a team.
Perks?
I really value building a socially responsible community.
People don't know?
My role involves translating my 60,000 year old culture into modern day learning.
Average salary?
$1,800 per week for an experienced community worker.
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