Matt Little is passionate about community development, advocacy and social justice, and is on track to graduate from UWA at the end of the year after a university experience that has prepared him for a future making positive social change.
Studying a Bachelor of Arts, with majors in Political Science & International Relations, and Law & Society, Matt further consolidated his community-focused learning by completing UWA’s Minor in Active Citizenship, a specialisation offered through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship (the Centre).
“I decided to add the Minor in Active Citizenship to my degree as it matched my values of equity and justice, and included practical components that allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I have developed throughout my studies to real world problems,” Matt said.
“It taught me to be critical and question why things are the way they are; why are some people worse off than others and how can we change this?
“It also taught me how I can be an active member in my local community and the variety of different forms of civic participation I can involve myself in to make my community and society at large a fairer, more equitable place for all.
“I think that students engaging in critical thinking about active citizenship is vital for them developing a sense of belonging and empathy for others, and vital to positive social change and legal reform. Without the ability to question the status quo, and feeling equipped and empowered to change things for the better, inequality will continue to widen.”
Matt’s involvement with the Centre started with an internship. He was matched to a role with the WA Council of Social Service (WACOSS), contributing 100 hours to support work on the Equity Project, an initiative tackling poverty and disadvantage in WA. In the Approaches to Wicked Problems unit, Matt was able to work with a small group of students as well as project sponsors from Anglicare WA and Communicare on an initiative to engage young audiences with the work of the Equity Project.
Matt is planning to take a break to travel after graduation, before pursuing a Master’s degree, possibly in Social Work or International Aid and Development. He said he would recommend the Minor in Active Citizenship for other students passionate about making a difference.
“I currently work in local government, and as a Peer Supporter at The Living Room at UWA; in the future I would love to work in the field of youth justice, protecting and upholding children’s rights.
“Completing this minor gives you important skills and knowledge applicable to everyday life like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and teamwork.
“For me, meeting other like-minded individuals and connecting with inspiring professionals has been an enriching highlight of my university experience.”