Darren Finn – NSW

Darren’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of adult learning. A proud Kamilaroi man from rural NSW, Darren left school early and moved away from home to pursue sporting dreams, later becoming a World Martial Arts Champion and three-time Australian Boxing Champion. Despite his success, he felt a deeper calling to support his community.

Without formal qualifications, he worked wherever he could, in the local meat works, on building sites, even pushing trolleys. Facing setbacks, including four rejections for a mentor role, Darren’s persistence paid off on his fifth attempt. But he needed Cert IV level education, which he first pursued online without success and then pursued Cert IV in Community Services through face-to-face learning at Inverell Community College. With support from staff and peers, Darren earned his first qualification, igniting a passion for helping others access education and employment.

He has since completed multiple certificates, opened a not-for-profit martial arts and fitness centre for disengaged youth, and worked in disability support. In 2018, he was named Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year at the NSW State Training Awards.

At 46, Darren is now a Jobs Australia Enterprise Manager, Darren is a visible role model in his hometown Inverell. His next goal is to complete the Diploma of Leadership and Management, equipping him with new skills to lead community initiatives and continue inspiring others. His story shows that no matter where you start, learning can change your life and through you, the lives of many others. In the Kamilaroi tradition of strong, visible leadership, Darren lives by his motto: “Lead by example and others will follow.”