2026 ALW Launch

Since being elected in 2013, Andrew has also served as Shadow Assistant Minister for Schools, Shadow Minister for Cities and Urban Infrastructure, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs.

Adam grew up in Cabramatta and is an adult educator, teacher and musician, best known for his role in the SBS documentary Lost for Words, which followed adults on their literacy and numeracy learning journeys.

Adam has spent his career supporting vulnerable learners, including teaching trauma-informed education and psycho-education programs in correctional centres, and teaching at TAFE, supporting apprentices with literacy and numeracy.

John is Deputy CEO and Director of Education of the Wyndham Community & Education Centre.

John served for 10 years as Chairperson of Bridge Darebin, four years as Secretary of the Committee for Wyndham, and was an appointee to the ACFE North-West Regional Council from 2019 until 2024.

Rob is the CEO of MTC FutureReady, committed to skilling and empowering people towards meaningful work.

Rob also serves as Chair of the National Employment Services Association (NESA) and as a Board Member for Western Sydney University’s Fairfield Connect Study Hub and MTC Recruitment.

Nicky is an award-winning Australian musician, songwriter and bandleader.

Founder of the internationally acclaimed Melbourne Ska Orchestra and a former member of the John Butler Trio and self-described ‘eternal student’, Nicky will provide a special video message.

Born in South Africa and now based in Sydney, Sheron Sultan is the founder of Yatimba!, a student wellbeing and rhythmic movement program delivering engaging workshops in primary and high schools across NSW and the ACT.

Inspired by her own journey of adapting to life in a new country, she is passionate about helping young people build resilience, confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of belonging.

After returning to study while raising young twins, Casey experienced firsthand both the challenges and rewards of learning as an adult.

She is now a vocational educator, foundation skills practitioner and passionate advocate for the life-changing possibilities of education.

Arron is a proud Kamilaroi man whose journey reflects resilience, determination and a deep connection to community and culture.

Facing barriers to employment, Arron built his confidence and skills through the MTC FutureReady and GADI-supported SEE program, which provided culturally safe training, mentoring, and clear pathways into work. Read more.

Originally from Bosnia, Memnuna arrived in Australia in the 1980s. After working in her family business, Memnuna returned to study by enrolling in the SEE Program at MTC FutureReady in Liverpool.

She is now building on her skills and experience, preparing to return to the workforce as an accountant or bookkeeper. Read more.

Emma is a proud Wiradjuri Woman, whose learning journey was a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs.

Now a dedicated vocational education specialist, Emma’s career has been built on bridging the gap between education, community service, and operational excellence.