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The Virtual Leader Initiatives program was born out of lockdown and provides students with the chance to run a program in a virtual space to their fellow students regardless of where they are located. This program has not only allowed students to connect but has also provided an opportunity to build and develop students’ leadership skills.
We’ve sat down with Deakin student Olivia, who participated in this initiative with her friend Ally, where they ran a free Mocktail Making Workshop during Wellness Week, and here’s what they have to say about the program.
Tell us about the online event you ran
This year Ally and I ran a Mocktail Workshop. It was the first year we decided to run an event. Originally, we had planned to run it together, because at the time there were only a few Covid restrictions, however, as it got to later in the year, we realised this would not be able to happen, so we came up with Plan B. We decided the best way to run this online event was to come up with six cocktails and make three each. We ended up demonstrating how to make Sunrise Orange, Passionfruit Martini, Shirley Temple, Mojito Mocktail, Blue Lagoon, Magic Butterfly Mocktail and Lavender Lemonade. My favourite was the Sunrise Orange, but they were all pretty good.
Why did you choose to participate?
There were various reasons as to why we wanted to participate, the first being was due to Covid, we were unable to go out and catch up with friends. This made us realise by running a program we could meet new people, make mocktails and teach people how to make their own tasty drinks without the alcohol, and still have fun.
The second reason was because we have both applied for the Leadership Development Program. Therefore, not only was this event fun, it was also very beneficial for us.
What was the application process like?
The application process was very easy and did not take up a lot of time. That was convenient because we were both very busy with assignments at the time. All we had to do fill out a form and submit it for approval.
What was it like conducting the program by yourselves via Zoom?
We did run into some technical difficulties, and it was definitely much harder to aim the camera at your drink, and for the audience to hear you. However, it was still a lot of fun and I would do it all again...even on Zoom!
What advice would you give others wanting to participate?
Advice that I would give others is just to give it a go! Some of these opportunities you don't get to do outside of uni. Everyone is lovely and welcoming; we love it when we can see friendly faces but are just as happy that you turn up and want to give it a go.
We had a really great time running our Mocktail Making Workshop. It took a lot of courage for me to run this program, but I am so glad I did. I can't wait to run it again next year and to create even more Mocktails.
If you are interested in this program, and would like to apply for this opportunity, become a member of DUSA Crew today! You could run a language workshop, arts and crafts event, or even a virtual trip somewhere around the world; the opportunities are endless! Sign up at https://www.dusa.org.au/all-things-dusa/dusa-crew