Seven TAFE NSW students have flexed their new event management skills to continue the institution’s fundraising legacy and raise more than $3,500 for youth homelessness charity Youth Off The Streets.

It is the nineteenth year that TAFE NSW Ultimo Diploma in Event Management students have chosen to donate funds to the charity as part of their studies. In that time, they have contributed $259,000.

The students’ real-world fundraising experience aims to contribute to a pipeline of skilled workers amidst a growing need for fundraising professionals with event management skills nationally[1].

TAFE NSW student Nigel Santos was the event’s Entertainment and Activity Manager and said the opportunity to use his newfound skills to contribute to a meaningful cause was incredibly rewarding.

“Seven of us designed and delivered our event, ‘A Night in the 2000s’, in three months, with no prior event management experience except for what we’d learned in the classroom at TAFE NSW. We were each responsible for finding sponsors so that the entirety of the funds raised could go to Youth Off The Streets.

After pursuing a number of careers, he said the experience confirmed that a career in event management could provide the fulfillment he’s been looking for.

“Getting to see the smiles on the attendees’ faces on the night made all our planning worth it. It’s made me excited about working in the industry and helped me see the value I can bring to future employers.”  

Youth Off The Streets Fundraising Coordinator Peta Gillis said the funds will be put towards a number of programs to support young people experiencing homelessness.

“We’re very grateful for the support of the TAFE NSW Ultimo Events faculty over the past decade,” she said.

“The money the students raised at this event will contribute to a pool of funding that supports programs like our Homelessness and Housing service, which includes casework for young people experiencing homelessness, life skills programs and education and employment services.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Events Crystal Magnus said the students have demonstrated all the skills required to succeed in the events industry.

“Our Diploma of Events Management students deliver an event for a charity for their final assessment, so they can use their skills for a good cause while getting to work with a real-life client,” she said.

“The students have entire creative licensing over every aspect of the event, giving them invaluable experience in decision-making, budgeting, working in a team and understanding the needs of their client.”

Media contact: TAFE NSW Media Centre, MediaRelease@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000​​​​.