Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Alena, I’m 27 and I work in finance in Sydney. I grew up in the country in Far North Queensland, so you’ll find me wearing a jumper all year round, as the weather is never quite warm enough for me down here. I love reading, hiking and travelling.
Why did you choose to join THPA’s Youth Board?
I wanted to do something with my spare time to effect change. I love the way THPA poses those in hunger as the solution not the problem and the fact that it’s a holistic sustainable approach, rather than a handout.
What is your highlight from being on the Youth Board so far?
Working with incredibly motivating individuals. I had no idea how much I’d learn from my wonderful fellow Youth Board members and those within THPA, but they inspire me hugely! Also, putting forward a proposal to get THPA onto the Shout For Good platform, and having that progress to reality was very rewarding.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Living a slightly slower life, maybe back in the country or a smaller city (I love Sydney but it’s a little too fast paced at times for me). I definitely see a golden retriever or two in my future!
Favourite quote?
This one is more of a poem, but it always sticks with me about pursuing your goals and dreams even when people tell you that it’s impossible. I had this plastered on my wall during university.
I saw a man pursuing the horizon;
Round and round they sped.
I was disturbed at this;
I accosted the man.
“It is futile,” I said,
“You can never —”
“You lie,” he cried,
And ran on.
— Stephen Crane