Volunteer Profile: Catherine Beven

With a background in adult education, project management, and administration, Catherine brings decades of professional experience to her volunteer role with Community First Development. Based on Boonwurrung Country, she’s passionate about learning, cultural connection, and supporting self-determined community projects. Since joining Community First Development over a year ago, she’s used her skills to back community-led projects while continuing her own journey of growth and understanding.  

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I'm a 67-year-old woman living and working on Boonwurrung land on the Mornington Peninsula. My greatest passion in life is travel and I have no idea how that started but I'm so glad it did! My first plane trip was when I was 18 and I went to Tasmania with friends. After that, I was hooked and have visited and lived in many parts of Australia including 20 years in Far North Queensland. I've visited over 21 countries outside of Australia and probably won't stop until I've seen a polar bear in the wild and a family of gorillas in the wild.  

I have four grown daughters, five grandkids and two greyhounds. Thankfully, only the greyhounds live with me these days!  

My other great passions are listening to all genres of music and learning new skills and knowledge, including learning how to play my guitar. 

What inspired you to volunteer with us, and how long have you been involved? 

I've been involved with Community First Development for more than 12 months after researching organisations both here and overseas where I hoped I could use my various skills in adult education and training, project management and administration.  

Community First Development's approach of self-determination is inspiring and attracted my attention straight away. 

What’s been the most rewarding part of volunteering with us? Any standout moments or experiences? 

For as long as I can remember, I have tried to learn as much as I can about First Nations people. The importance of Country and connection to it is awe-inspiring and I am lucky to have been afforded the opportunity to meet some amazing people who are doing great things for their communities. At the same time, I have been able to gather some knowledge about different cultures while also, hopefully, giving back to those that I have met through using my knowledge for their projects. 

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with us? 

Without hesitation I say do it! You will be well supported by the Community First Development staff and meeting the people who are leading the way for their communities is a privilege! 

Thanks for sharing some of your story with us Catherine! 

Volunteering with Community First Development is a chance to use your skills meaningfully, learn from incredible First Nations leaders and community members, and be part of lasting change by supporting self-determination. If you're looking for a rewarding way to give back, there's no better place to start.  

Learn more about volunteering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities here.