Professional Leader and Engineer
prioritises volunteering to assist youth in need 

 

In 2017, distinguished leader and chemical engineer Gary Frampton made a decision that changed not only his life but the lives of young students struggling to reach their potential. 

Gary is the former Head of Business Development at BHP’s Nickel West Asset and in a leap of faith, negotiating a reduced workload to four days a week. Gary dedicated two hours of his day off to give back to the community as a volunteer with the organisation EdConnect Australia.   

EdConnect Australia trains and supports volunteers to work in local schools, providing a safety net for young people who might otherwise struggle to realise their potential – in school and life. 

In 2022, EdConnect Australia volunteers mentored 895 students and supported 12,594 students with a Learning Support volunteer in the classroom. This was achieved by the 1,182 volunteers across Australia that gave their time in their local school in their community. 

Gary took on the role of a volunteer mentor at Kent St Senior High School. His mission is to provide guidance and support to students who are at risk of not reaching their academic and life potential. Currently Gary works with two boys aged Year 7 and Year 9.   

Student Adrian comments on his bond with Gary.   

“EdConnect mentors are an amazing help. Before, I wasn’t doing well in class, and I found it difficult to understand things. Gary has helped me a lot with my issues and schoolwork, now I’m more organised and making the most of my education,” he said. 

“It has always been a safe space that I don’t have to worry about being pressured, or not understanding something. Learning with Gary has been an extraordinary experience,” he continued. 

EdConnect Liaison Officer South Metro WA Roselynn Lang spoke to Gary’s character. 

“Gary has become a source of inspiration for the young men he mentors. He helps them identify their goals, nurtures their aspirations, and equips them with strategies to overcome setbacks.  With his knowledge and expertise, Gary addresses all three dimensions of mentoring – intellectual, emotional, and physical. He is an inspiration to community-minded professionals and aspiring mentors alike,” she said. 

Earlier in 2023, Gary retired from his position at BHP but his volunteering continues to be a highlight of his week. 

“It feels good to be making a small contribution to the community by empowering young adults with a toolkit of life skills which will hopefully serve them well as they prepare to enter adulthood,” he said. 

“Gary’s dedication as a volunteer mentor has been nothing short of extraordinary. His selflessness and commitment have touched the hearts of everyone he interacts with. He is a true role model for aspiring mentors, showing that anyone can make a difference with their time and expertise,” said Roselynn.  

EdConnect Australia trains and supports volunteers to work in local schools, providing a safety net for young people who might otherwise struggle to realise their potential – in school and life. It is Australia’s only intergenerational volunteering charity which operates within both primary and secondary schools.

For more information on our volunteering program click here, email edconnect@edconnect.org.au or call 1800 668 550.