Life-changing learning program in the news

Media coverage- 6.30 with George Negus, 21 September 2011
also on AM on ABC Radio, 22 September 2011

George Negus introduced last night’s feature on the innovative Catalyst-Clemente university program for marginalised people by saying, “Given untapped talent even half a chance and you’ll be surprised at what they can achieve.”

The Catalyst-Clemente program provides accredited university courses in humanities subjects as a step towards overcoming poverty and other serious challenges.

Last night’s story aired on the eve of the release of the Addressing Social Disadvantage report into the learning program.

The 6.30 with George Negus story focused on two Catalyst-Clemente students - Amanda and Luke. After working in the Antarctic 14 years ago, Amanda developed post-traumatic stress disorder and retreated from the world

Luke, 27, was also isolated before beginning Catalyst-Clemente. Now brimming with confidence, he hopes to one day move into politics.

Mission Australia’s Queensland Director, Penny Gillespie, also spoke about the impact that the program makes to the lives of people who have lived on the margins of society.

Mission Australia is just one of the community agencies that deliver Catalyst-Clemente. We currently require support to ensure this life-changing program can help more people like Luke and Amanda.

• Watch the Catalyst-Clemente report on 6.30 with George Negus.
• Catalyst-Clemente also featured on this morning’s edition of AM on ABC Radio. Hear Naomi Woodley’s report.