It was two years ago, while playing footy with some friends, that Hassan Nur Hussein first heard about The Huddle.

Keen to see what we were about, Hussein joined in a Study Squad session and since then has become a familiar, friendly face around The Huddle.

“I came to know Sam Malual (former Huddle employee) while I was having a kick with some friends after school,” Mr Hussein said.

“I learned about what he and The Huddle does for the community and after speaking to some of the kids in my local area, I told Sam I was interested in volunteering.

“From there, he introduced me to the staff at The Huddle and I took my first steps into volunteering.”

Passionate about connecting new members of the community and teaching others news skills, Hussein quickly found his feet and was soon volunteering at one of The Huddle’s most popular programs, Welcome to AFL.

“I joined in a Welcome to AFL session, which connects international students and teaches them basics of AFL. I had a little knowledge of the game, so I took the lead and taught participants how to kick and handpass,” he said. 

“From there I got to know a few more members of The Huddle and my experience grew.”

After getting his first taste of volunteering, Hussein soon found himself reaching out to members of his community, connecting them, and forming his own support network.

“I started my own group in my community, and we used to meet twice a week, however, COVID-19 has meant we can no longer do that.

“The Huddle really has shaped the connection I have with the community. Being able to volunteer meant I gained the experience and confidence I needed to be able to support others whenever they reach out to me.”

Currently studying a Bachelor of Education at Vic Uni, Hussein has continued to volunteer with The Huddle, striving to find new and innovative ways to gain valuable teaching experience while navigating the complexities of COVID-19.

Hussein has connected with Community Sport and Recreation Coordinator, Stephanie Webb, as well as Education Coordinator Kynan Barnes, running virtual study session for students. He has also observed and delivered True North modules virtually with Emma Kearney, The Huddle’s Social Cohesion Education Coordinator.

“The Huddle has been extremely supportive of my professional and personal development. I have done True North sessions with Emma on emotional intelligence which has helped throughout the year and allowed me to support others on a more meaningful level,” he said. 

“I have been able to observe Kynan who runs study sessions which is a good opportunity to see how he has helped students and practice some teaching methods.

“Steph is a mentor to me. It has been really helpful to have her there as support, and she is someone I can always ask for help.”

Looking back on the experience gained through The Huddle’s True North and Study Squad programs, Hussein thanked The Huddle for supporting his education.

“I would really like to thank The Huddle for the opportunity to gain new skills and experience which have helped me become a better teacher,” he added. 

“Not everyone gets the opportunity to build their skills so early on in their studies, so I’m thankful that I can continue to push my limits to become a great teacher in the future.”