Each year in October World Teachers' Day is celebrated.
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Most countries around the world celebrate on October 5, however, because this date was during the school holidays, in Australia we celebrate World Teachers' Day on Friday, October 25.
In 2019, the UNESCO theme is 'Young Teachers: The future of the Profession'.
It is a time to celebrates the teaching profession; to take stock of achievements, and; address the issues for attracting, and keeping, the brightest minds and young talents in the profession.
Crookwell based Dana White is due to graduate in December with a distinction from Swinburne Online, the online arm of the Swinburne University of Technology based in Melbourne.
The 29-year-old started her Bachelor of Education (Primary) in 2015.
Ms White's journey has been rocked by family hardship, however, her resilience has shaped her ability in both life and study. She hopes to bring these lessons to the classroom to help educate students.
During, her studies her six-year-old son was diagnosed with Autism, and her husband, Chalkie White, was diagnosed with life-threatening cancer.
"My husband was having intense chemotherapy and I didn't want to defer university, however, I dropped back my subjects and studied full-time."
Mr White is now in full remission, and her son has settled into a routine.
She said she has learned a lot from his diagnosis, including visual and communication strategies to teach every child, and showing more empathy. She added that being a mum helped too.
Ms White said she is passionate about working with young students to develop their skills and knowledge to become confident and capable citizens of the 21st century.
"Our kids are our future leaders and we need strong and empowering leaders to give positive reinforcements to enable their futures."
Studying online suited her demanding schedule.
"I wouldn't have been able to study on campus. I've been able to put my kids to bed and study and while they're at preschool too."
Ms White is continuing her education and will begin studying religious education in November, followed by a graduate certificate in Autism in 2020.
