Growing Compassion in Action: ALWS Ambassador Bootcamp
In March, educators from across Victoria gathered in Melbourne for the ALWS Ambassador Bootcamp – an opportunity not just to learn, but to be equipped to grow compassion and global awareness in their students.
With 46 new Ambassadors trained nationally, representing 23 Lutheran schools, the heart of the day was clear: to empower educators to help students see beyond their own context and respond with empathy, justice and hope. This reflects the heart of LEA’s Free to Flourish values in forming young people who are courageous, compassionate and connected to the wider world.
Through sessions exploring international aid and development, participants gained a deeper understanding of the work of ALWS and its partners. Guest speaker Chey Mattner, Director of CAN DO (Church Agencies Network Disaster Operations) shared insights from years of experience in international development, including his work with ALWS, the Lutheran World Federation, and now CAN DO. His perspective brought depth and realism to the complexities of humanitarian work, while also highlighting its profound impact.
The day also provided practical tools exploring what meaningful, sustainable aid looks like, and how schools can embed service learning authentically. Just as importantly, it created space for connection and shared purpose among passionate educators.
“The ALWS Bootcamp is an inspiring and worthwhile experience that I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of meaningful service and global impact. Throughout the Bootcamp, you’ll engage with rich, thought-provoking information about ALWS and hear powerful, real-life stories from individuals and communities who have been supported and empowered through its work. It equips participants with practical ideas and a renewed sense of purpose, helping students connect their learning to real-world impact.”
ALWS Ambassadors play a vital role in Lutheran schools in connecting students with global realities and inspiring them to respond with empathy and action.
We value the partnership we enjoy with Lutheran schools. Together, we are equipping young people to grow in compassion and live out their faith in meaningful ways.
To continue building this impact, ALWS will offer Ambassador training each year in different locations, and we encourage every school to consider appointing one or two Ambassadors to lead, inspire and strengthen this connection within their community.
For details of future trainings or how you can connect with ALWS, please contact me at cfielke@alws.org.au
