School students visit UNE for day of inspiration

June 04, 2007

About 480 school students from throughout the region travelled to the University of New England last Friday for a day of inspiration and encouragement.

"Step to the Future" is an annual event that brings high profile speakers to local venues to speak to 15-to-18-year-olds about pathways to a successful career and a meaningful life.

2007 marks the third year in a row that UNE has hosted – and sponsored – this popular event.

The students came from nine schools in Armidale, Tamworth and Guyra.

This year's speakers included singer and actor Armondo Hurley, campDARE founder Brett Murray, The Biggest Loser contestant Kimberlie Smart and Olympic gold medallist Mark Torelli. UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Alan Pettigrew officially welcomed the students to the university.

One of the most popular speakers of the day was Armondo Hurley, the voice behind some of Australia’s catchiest advertising jingles, as well as a former backup singer to Jimmy Barnes and Diana Ross.

In his speech, Mr Hurley shared stories of his early career as a clown with Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus and had his young audience in stitches with his comic schtick. Later, he recounted his darkest hour: being beaten and left to die by racists in the US.

Mr Hurley said one of his goals was to get young people to challenge racial stereotypes.

"Not all black people are good at basketball," he said. "My brothers play basketball, I don't. I don't do sweat. Not all black people can sing. You should hear my brothers. They're terrible."

“The message I’m trying to get across is one of self-respect,” Mr Hurley said.

The Step to the Future program began in Sydney as a pilot project in 2002, and its immediate success led to events in other State capitals and Canberra (as well as its debut in regional NSW) in 2003. Each forum is organised and run by a committee of local students in Years 10-12, who come from government, private, and Catholic schools.

For more information about this story contact Leon Braun (UNE Public Relations) on (02) 6773 3771. A photograph is available to accompany this story.

Posted by Leon Braun at June 4, 2007 03:55 PM