Empowering Icons: Back to School with Pru Hannon

This month, our Icons of Impact series shines a light on Pru Hannon, Delivery Lead for NSW at the Beacon Foundation.

Empowering Icons: Back to School with Pru Hannon

At Small Change Big Change (SCBC), we celebrate individuals making significant strides in their communities. This month, our Icons of Impact series shines a light on Pru Hannon, Delivery Lead for NSW at the Beacon Foundation. Pru’s journey from the finance industry to social health and counselling, and eventually to Beacon, is a testament to her dedication to empowering young Australians. Her story is not just inspiring but a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and support.

From Finance to Philanthropy: Pru’s Unique Path

Pru’s career transformation began after the birth of her three children. Leaving behind the finance industry, she pursued a degree in Social Health and Counselling, leading to a role in Drug & Alcohol detox at a major Sydney hospital. This experience highlighted the importance of educating young people on harm minimisation, fostering her belief that knowledge is power. Pru was motivated to join Beacon during the COVID pandemic, driven by the challenges faced by young people, especially in disadvantaged areas. Beacon’s mission resonated deeply with her values, offering her a platform to make a meaningful impact.

Moments of Transformation: Celebrating Student Success

As the Delivery Lead, Pru is responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering Beacon’s programs in NSW. These programs such as Beacon’s ‘High Impact Program’ across 3 different learning cohorts, equip students with essential skills and practical experience, focusing on real-world experiences and professional development. Pru’s role also involves fostering strategic corporate partnerships and nurturing relationships within local communities. Her efforts have significantly impacted both the organisation and its beneficiaries, particularly in boosting students’ confidence and aspirations.

Pru’s journey is marked by numerous transformative moments. One standout achievement is witnessing the transformation in students at the end of Beacon’s programs. The confidence students gain in identifying and verbalising their skills is a powerful testament to the program’s impact. These moments, where students feel validated and heard, are not just milestones for the students but also for Pru and the entire Beacon team.

Volunteers Making a Difference: Bridging Worlds

Beacon’s success is amplified by the involvement of industry volunteers, who bridge the gap between students and the outside world. These volunteers offer real-life stories and experiences from all backgrounds, providing students with a glimpse into the world of work and pathways. The interaction is mutually beneficial, with volunteers gaining new perspectives into an already insightful generation and students feeling more confident and valued.

Vision for the Future

Pru draws inspiration from the resilience of the young people she works with and the dedication of her colleagues and partners. Her future aspirations include expanding Beacon’s reach to more students and schools, particularly in regional and rural areas, and fostering a committed pool of industry volunteers. She envisions a future where youth voices are amplified, and their potential is fully realised.

Thank you, Pru, for all the work you do!

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Pru Hannon for her vibrant and inspiring energy, a driving force in propelling Beacon’s youth programs forward with passion, success and creativity. Her story is a powerful example of the impact that dedication, education, and support can have on young people’s lives. At SCBC, we are grateful to Pru and her team at Beacon Foundation for the world class programs developed and executed to young people across Australia.

“My journey from finance to social health and counselling has been fulfilling and has reinforced the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. For those looking to make a similar impact, my advice is to embrace challenges, seek diverse experiences, and always prioritise the well-being and empowerment of young people.”

Join us in celebrating change makers like Pru. Made possible by our donor network and corporate members we are helping to create brighter futures for young Australians, empowering them to achieve their full potential. It’s amazing what a bunch of loose change can do. Thank you for being a part of something bigger!

About Beacon Foundation

The Beacon Foundation is dedicated to supporting young Australians in their transition from school to meaningful employment. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and the involvement of industry volunteers, Beacon equips students with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in their future careers. By fostering co-creating programs with students alongside real-world insights, Beacon Foundation plays a pivotal role in building a brighter future for the next generation. Your support helps us continue this vital work, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

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Empowering Icons: Back to School with Pru Hannon