Psychology student shines with Unsung Hero Award
Being able to give back to the community in real and personal ways fills Kathryn Smith with feelings of satisfaction and joy.
Currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Western Sydney University, Kathryn has been awarded this year’s Chancellor’s Unsung Heroes Award.
Supported by the University’s Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO, the award is part of the annual ZEST Awards led by the Western Sydney Community Forum, which highlights the diverse, creative, and groundbreaking work of the community sector across Greater Western Sydney.
A dedicated advocate for survivors of sexual violence, making significant contributions through her volunteer work with What Were You Wearing (WWYW) Australia, Kathryn said she was shocked to be the recipient of the award.
“I was fortunate to be nominated alongside so many other deserving students that I didn’t think I would win, and I felt instant gratitude for the University for believing in the cause I am passionate about, and to those who have helped me reach this point in my journey,” said Kathryn.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity and privilege to be in a position to work for this cause, and with the recent headlines of domestic and sexual violence, I am glad the issue is being highlighted as something important.”
Providing vital support and resources to survivors, Kathryn’s efforts have fostered empowerment, awareness, and real change in the community, driven by her personal experience with sexual violence.
The Penrith resident has also been instrumental in enacting new guidelines for RSA training to include drink spiking, increasing awareness of sexual violence and violence against women, and her community involvement includes her serving on the Headspace Family and Friends advisory committee.
“I was motivated to volunteer in this space after my own experiences with sexual violence, and learning of my peers' similar experiences, I realised that this is an all-too-common experience for many people,” she said.
“This is a nationwide crisis across the broader community, and the structures and the policies regarding it are well overdue for change.”
Studying at the University’s Kingswood campus, with her degree providing the building blocks to work towards her goal of becoming a registered psychologist, Kathryn encourages others to give back to causes that are important to them.
“I hope to be able to work with survivors of sexual violence in a clinical setting in the future, to help assist survivors have control of their lives again and be the best person they can be,” she said.
“I would recommend everyone to volunteer if they can as it has helped me flourish in my interests and professional development, as well as giving me wonderful opportunities from facilitating counselling groups, to travelling interstate to represent WWYW. It is one of the best choices I have ever made.”
Western Sydney University is committed to creating an inclusive, safe and respectful place to study and work. The University’s Respect web page(opens in a new window) has further information on support and reporting options for students and staff who have experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault.
If you or anyone you know needs help, please call the National Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service(opens in a new window) on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline(opens in a new window) on 13 11 14, or Kids Helpline(opens in a new window) on 1800 551 800.
ENDS
11 July 2024
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