We’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Marcus Wong, who has been the awarded the 2019 WA Youth Volunteer of the Year. Marcus, a John Curtin Undergraduate Scholars (JCUS) Alumnus, graduated from Curtin last year with a Bachelor of Arts (Screen Arts and Creative Advertising and Graphic Design).

Marcus was awarded the John Curtin Undergraduate Scholarship (JCUS) in 2016 and was a strong contributor to the Curtin community during his time as a student, in particular through his work with John Curtin Weekend (JCW) as a volunteer, site leader and member of the JCW organising committee. Marcus used his graphic design skills to produce artwork for the program, in addition to compiling annual slideshows used to recruit volunteers and promote JCW. Marcus also volunteered with Curtin Community Projects, assisting with the organisation of events for the World’s Greatest Shave, Perth Children’s’ Hospital and Daffodil Day for the Cancer Council.

In 2017, Marcus travelled to Uganda for his JCUS international experience, volunteering for three months at Rafiki Africa Ministries. During this time, he used his extensive skills to film and photograph the incredible work done there for the children who were abandoned by their families due to poverty or illness. The experience was life-changing for Marcus and, on his return, he organised a film and photography exhibition titled ‘Voices Unheard’. This heart-warming visual story raised awareness and funds for the Rafiki Africa Ministries. Marcus continues to volunteer in Uganda and Ethiopia, working with five not-for-profit organisations. Through this work he documents and tells the stories of disadvantaged children in Africa, with the aim of raising funds to alleviate their poverty, giving them better lives and greater opportunities.

Congratulations Marcus!