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FOCUS: FUTURE LEADERS BURSARY
Conference bursary to ensure the future is in good hands
Leaders of the future encouraged to apply for unique opportunity
“Be present in the moment. And drop our egos – it’s not about us, it’s about the person that we’re with.”
That’s the advice of home support worker and International Dementia Conference 2024 (IDC2024) Future Leader bursary recipient Alyson McNamara, who is passionate about improving the lives of people living with dementia.
She was put forward for one of the bursary places by her employer, aged and community care provider Resthaven in South Australia, and she’s over the moon to be given the opportunity.
“I’m looking forward to listening, learning, observing, meeting people, having the tough discussions that people maybe struggle with,” said Alyson.
The Future Leaders bursaries are an opportunity for up and coming, early-career professionals, who – if selected – receive a complementary, two-day registration to IDC2024 worth $1,349.
“We want to celebrate and nurture the next generation of leaders in the field of dementia care and support, so we’re waiving the cost to get them into the arena,” said Marie Alford, head of dementia professional services at The Dementia Centre, which is running the conference.
“We know that the future of dementia care is in their hands, and we want them to be ready.”
Alyson was nominated by Resthaven’s executive manager of community services and retirement living Mel Ottaway, who said her stand-out qualities were kindness, patience, the ability to laugh and a desire to get to know people.
“She brings passion and excitement, and wants to learn every day, with everything she does,” said Mel.
“She wants to do better and continue to grow, and that’s what I love and want to support.”
Alyson ‘absolutely loves’ her job and hopes to be part of changes for the better in the future of dementia care.
“There definitely needs to be more education for workers –education about the language that we use, the questions that we ask, how to be aware of the energies around us,” said Alyson.
“And listen to what they’re saying, and their stories, because a lot of the time from the stories I get a little clue as to how I can work with them better and make them feel safe.”
Mel urged other managers to put forward their best employees for the remaining Future Leader bursary opportunities, saying it’s a priceless chance for a team member to learn and grow.
“Do it – it’s an amazing opportunity!” she said.
IDC2024 is also offering bursaries to exceptional health and aged care students.
All bursary applications close 19 July 2024.
FIND OUT MORE
The International Dementia Conference will be held at the Hilton Sydney on 5-6 September 2024 – more details about the event and the bursaries can be found at https://www.dementiaconference.com/
