Saniya George, a UWA Commerce student majoring in Business Law and Law and Society, helped engage business leaders with the support they could provide to victims of family and domestic violence (FDV) through her recent internship with the Path of Hope Foundation.
Through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship program, Saniya contributed 100 hours to her project with the Foundation, researching, developing resources and presenting on the issue. She also contributed to a report examining how countries around the world have abolished corporal punishment of children.
“The work I undertook aimed to help connect leaders in the business world to the issue of family and domestic violence - most FDV victims are working, and if their workplaces were more educated and able to provide support, the victims' lives would be significantly improved,” Saniya said.
“A workplace is an environment that can provide escape from the physical and emotional impacts of FDV on victims, in terms of location, financial support and feelings of despair.
“In my internship role, I wrote and designed an e-kit for businesses to deal with family violence in the workplace.
“This resource was released to business leaders during a panel discussion event, and I was able to present an introductory speech,” she said.
Rebecca Tolstoy AM, Path of Hope Foundation Director, said that Saniya’s efforts had enabled the Foundation to significantly enhance their outreach initiatives and branding.
“Saniya’s innovative contributions to our monthly e-magazine and the development of a business toolkit have been pivotal in supporting Australian business leaders to foster workplace wellbeing.
“Her unique blend of academic knowledge, practical skills and global perspective has been a source of inspiration and a driving force behind successful projects, and her dedication has greatly enriched our mission and set a high standard for future collaborations.”
After impressing her Path of Hope colleagues with her internship achievements, Saniya said she was now looking into a study abroad semester and legal internship in the United Kingdom, on Ms Tolstoy’s recommendation.
“I would recommend the McCusker Centre internship, as it can give you a glimpse into the field of work you may want to pursue,” Saniya said.
“I was really interested in family law, and this experience was very insightful. Additionally, I have connected with many professionals who have been helpful in developing my resume and giving me insight from their own careers.”