elopment (AVID) program.

Former Cambewarra woman Shae Arazny said when she went to Timor Leste in 2002 with the program it was an experience of a lifetime.

“I learned so many skills I was able to use to further my career when I got home. It was invaluable.

“The people were amazing too. I had so much fun.”

AVID is an Australian Government initiative that allows volunteers to share skills and knowledge with local people and organisations and develop their own skills in developing countries to help make a difference.

AVID jobs are available in a range of sectors including IT, marketing, media, health, sports, law, community development and human resources for one to 18-month periods.

Ms Arazny said she stayed for 12 months and would encourage others to stay for as long as possible to get the most out of the program.

“I went on to teach after I finished the program,” she said.

“I heard about it while I was at university and thought it would be a great opportunity to combine my knowledge with hands-on experience.

“While I was there I got the opportunity to apply skills as an educator so the experience was proactive professionally and I was able to develop my skills as a mentor and leader.”

Ms Arazny said it wasn’t all about work.

“We got some amazing opportunities to travel around the countryside and see parts that are quite untouched,” she said.

“My favourite thing, though, was riding a motorbike around everywhere. It was really fun.”

There are 30 AVID assignments now open for teachers and education professionals of varying levels of experience, all starting overseas in January for the new school year.

AVID is available to people aged over 18.

For more information or to apply, visit www.volunteering .scopeglobal.com.