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The recent learning journey with Stroke Support Station (S3) provided participants with an experiential and reflective opportunity to deepen their understanding of the social service sector. Through a safe and supportive learning environment, participants engaged in a human library–style panel and interactive discussions with practitioners from the sector, gaining firsthand insights into the industry, its work culture, and the diverse career pathways available. These engagements helped participants reframe their perceptions of social service careers, clarify their motivations, and recognise how their skills and interests could be applied meaningfully to create social impact.

Learning Journey: Key Takeaways for Youth

1. Rethinking the Social Service Sector

(a) See the Bigger Purpose

1. Social service work is deeply meaningful and creates real, tangible impact
2. Contributing to community and care can be personally fulfilling
3. Impact often outweighs purely transactional measures of success

(b) Appreciate the People Behind the Work

1. Social service professionals are driven by compassion, patience, and commitment
2. Teams are supportive, proactive, and values-led
3. Respect for the mission and the people grows through firsthand exposure

2. Understanding Careers in Social Services

(a) More Than One Career Path

1. The sector offers diverse roles beyond frontline social service work
2. Different skills and backgrounds can contribute meaningfully
3. There is space to find a cause that resonates personally

(b) A Human-Centred Industry

1. Work is interactive, patient-focused, and relationship-driven
2. Care goes beyond routine tasks to holistic, person-centred support
3. Seeing real-world impact shifts perceptions of the industry

3. Shifting Career Priorities

(a) Impact Over Conventional Metrics

1. Career satisfaction is not just about salary or work-life balance
2. Meaning, contribution, and alignment with values matter
3. Mindset plays a key role in shaping career choices

(b) Creating Impact with Your Skills

1. Any role or skill set can be used to support meaningful causes
2. Purpose-driven work is possible across different functions
3. The key is intentional application of one’s strengths

4. Growing Interest and Confidence in the Sector

(a) Increased Openness to Social Service Careers

1. Greater interest in exploring the social service industry
2. More confidence in considering the sector as a viable career option
3. Exposure reduces misconceptions and uncertainty

(b) Clarity Through Experience

1. Firsthand insights help clarify career preferences
2. Understanding the work culture and motivations of professionals supports informed decision-making

5. Core Mindset Takeaways

Three Key Reflections:

1. Purpose - Choose paths that allow you to contribute meaningfully to society
2. Openness - Stay curious about industries you may not have considered before
3. Impact-Driven Thinking - Fulfilment comes from seeing how your work improves lives