Hello Gowrie Family my name is Neil Sabatino, I am the Community Engagement Officer at St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie. Originally from Keriri Island in Zenadh Kes I am also an Old Boy of the College. With my experience as a past student I have a strong connection to families and a deep understanding of the different communities from which our boys are from. Now as a member of staff I continue to build upon this relationship. I come from a community minded upbringing and I am looking forward to visiting families throughout the year on our College Community Visits.
As a proud Indigenous man from the Torres Straits, I learnt Island Dancing at a young age and was also part of the Dance Troupe during my time as a student. In my role I am looking forward to mentoring the Dance Troupe along with the help of other key community and staff members. I believe it’s important to keep a healthy balance when living in two worlds; living away from home, focusing on your education, while also being proud and holding onto your culture. Being part of the dance troupe will help boys build confidence in who they are while sharing their culture with the wider community.
In 2008 after graduating from St Teresa’s College Abergowrie I moved away from Keriri and worked at a Catholic Primary School in Rasmussen Townsville as an Indigenous School Officer, working with Preps to Year 7. In 2015 I returned back to Abergowrie as a Residential Supervisor then later became the Residential Coordinator for Year 9’s and also Year 7’s. In 2018 I took a break and moved to Melbourne where I was working as an Indigenous Male Youth worker helping disengaged Indigenous youths on the streets of St Kilda, Pahran and South Melbourne. During my time gaining experience working and communicating with students from Preps to Year 12 and youths in community.
As an Old Boy I am honored and happy to be in this position and have the chance to give back to the College, I appreciate all the lessons and opportunities I have been given over the years. I would love to share my experiences as an ex-residential student, and what the college has to offer to help in shaping your son’s development at an important time of their life. I am also looking forward to connecting with Old Boys and reestablishing relationships because I believe they also play an important role as ambassadors and advocates for the College. Most importantly, I am also looking forward to meeting families and building on the confidence between College and Community. I believe without the community the College wouldn’t be as unique as it is.
If you have any questions or enquiries please feel free to contact the Community Engagement Officer Mr Neil Sabatino on 07 4780 8300 or email nsabatino1@abergowrie.catholic.edu.au
