The Classic Wallabies Indigenous Exchange (CWIE) is an Eidos Institute initiative delivered in partnership with the Classic Wallabies, Australian Volunteers International, the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation and Eco Children with the support of the Australian government.
The CWIE aims to:
Enhance the futures of young Indigenous young people by facilitating an opportunity to explore new social, cultural, sporting and academic experiences and political and economic conditions, in the spirit of the Classic Wallabies’ international tours during their playing days;
Encourage Indigenous students to remain in study, particularly tertiary study. Each of the CWIE participants will become an ambassador for education, particularly tertiary study. The CWIE program has significant potential to contribute meaningfully to generational change for Indigenous scholars by using sport as a social bridge builder. The CWIE program acknowledges that more indigenous students are finishing Year 12 schooling, however tertiary enrolments in Australian universities and current employment statistics remain poor. The CWIE program promotes advances in university enrolments, employment and career prospects for Indigenous tertiary students.
Encourage non-studying Indigenous young people to undertake pathways that will ultimately lead to successful careers by providing them with positive experiences and networks they can implement in their personal career development. The program is dedicated to facilitating the development of young indigenous leaders both within the community and within their chosen field.
We currently offer Exchange opportunities to South Africa and the United Kingdom. Applications for the 2016 CWIE to South Africa have now closed. Applications for the 2016 CWIE to the United Kingdom have now closed.
Click
"I've been inspired by my time in the 2014 Classic Wallabies' Exchange program to undertake new leadership roles and challenge myself in every single aspect of my life. My love for national and international volunteering has continued and I can't wait for another opportunity to give back.
I want to thank Australian Volunteers International and the Classic Wallabies' Exchange for all the opportunities you've given me and hope my stories can inspire other young Indigenous people to volunteer and apply for this amazing opportunity"
Click
"I did some research before coming to South Africa but those museums really solidified my and expanded my ideas about the history of South Africa. Everyday I looked forward to being with the community. Learning, teaching and playing with the kids and community members that helped on the garden. I loved trying to learn some of their traditional dances and the Sotho language, they always laughed at me but I loved how eager they were to learn and share!
To anyone thinking about applying.. DO IT! You'll never find a more rewarding experience to be amongst a beautiful community that give nothing but love!
If you would like to hear when our new website goes live, or any other important Classic Wallabies Exchange information then please enter your email below