Juverna Guinane
One of the best parts about studying online is the flexibility. I can keep up with uni while working, travelling, and staying involved in my community. In July, I got the chance to travel to Tonga with the Terry Campese Foundation (TCF). It was honestly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.
The trip ran from the 11th to the 22nd of July. It was the final part of a 20 week youth mentoring program. Teams came from Braidwood, Crookwell, Canberra, Queanbeyan, and Goulburn. There were around 40 young participants, 10 mentors, and a small team of builders. We all worked together to give back to a community overseas.
While we were in Tonga, the team helped build a school library and computer hub. We also built sports courts and cleaned classrooms. It was full-on, physical work. Everyone helped out in different ways. Some were on the tools. Others cleaned or supported the young people.
I went over as a mentor from Braidwood, which was an incredible experience in itself. Being a mentor wasn’t just about guiding others, it was about learning alongside them. I got to watch young people grow in confidence, step out of their comfort zones, and discover what they were capable of. That kind of growth is powerful to witness, and even more powerful to support.
The role pushed me to step up as a leader, but also reminded me of the importance of listening, being patient, and leading by example. I saw real value in showing up consistently, encouraging the quieter voices, and helping the team feel supported, especially when the work was tough or the heat got to us.
What I took away from it was far more than I expected. It gave me perspective. It reminded me why I care so much about community, youth, and service. I went there hoping to help others, and came back with a deeper sense of purpose and connection.
One of the most special moments for me was watching the Australian kids and Tongan kids bond so naturally. Despite the language and cultural differences, they connected through games, laughter, and shared effort. It didn’t matter where they came from, they worked as a team, supported each other, and built real friendships. That’s what community is all about.
This trip reinforced everything I’m learning in my studies. I’m currently studying Emergency Management, and while that might sound different on the surface, it’s really about the same thing: helping people, building resilience, and supporting communities to thrive.
Whether it’s responding to a disaster, mentoring youth, or working alongside others on a tough job, it all comes down to connection, leadership, and service. That’s the path I want to keep following, working in regional areas, supporting people, and making a positive impact wherever I can.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
