Mary Thomas

Background

About Mary Thomas

My passion for Books, Libraries, Family and Children Services, VCE/IB Education and Community Management has been shaped by my experiences working with wonderful and inspiring individuals across various sectors. Among these are my experiences at Yarra Libraries, the Education Sectors, the Department of Justice, Victoria Curriculum and Assessment Authority, NGOs (including UN projects through Red Crescent in Africa), and collaborations with CEOs from different parts of the world. But it is the children who mostly taught me lessons. Observing the determination and resilience of underprivileged and under-resourced children as they strive towards success is not merely rewarding - it serves as a profound source of inspiration to me. In my roles, I have been involved in empowering women and children affected by violence and substance abuse, collaborating with Victoria Police, the Department of Justice, and religious leaders in Victoria and South Africa. These experiences have greatly enhanced my skills in effective communication, teamwork, interpersonal relations, adaptability, collaboration, mental health first aid response, and crisis management. However, it was through mentoring women parolees and enduring the loss of our cafe due to the Covid-19 pandemic that I learned some of the most valuable lessons: resilience and tenacity. My road to retirement was shattered due to Covid - almost. It seemed to have been extended instead, perhaps indefinitely. These challenges taught me the importance of picking myself up, staying determined, and bouncing back stronger than ever. When I had the privilege to attend the World Indigenous People Conference in Education in the Kaurna Land (Adelaide) last year, the lessons on resilience and tenacity were further enhanced. I had the opportunity to learn from amazing Indigenous and Aboriginal leaders, scientists, educators, and pioneers - they opened not only my senses but also my mind! Learning from those who have been walking on this earth for over 60K years was truly inspirational