Josette Grima, College Vice Captain and Rita Alsamani, College Faith Captain both attended the 2023 JJAMM Leaders experience to capture the unique charism of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred heart, led by Sr Jan Barnett.

Joined by College Captains from Josephite schools in NSW, Queensland Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand, Josette and Rita took part in the leadership conference that focused on the leadership qualities of Joseph, Julian Tenison Woods, and Mary MacKillop, the founders of the Sisters of St Joseph and our College. The journey began at Mary Mackillop Place, North Sydney, learning about Mary in the place where she worked, lived and now resides after her death in the tomb in the Chapel. The conference continued at St Joseph’s Spirituality and Education Retreat Centre in Kincumber, situated along the Kincumber Broadwater on the Central Coast

The JJAMM experience allowed student leaders from all Josephite schools to reflect on the key values and qualities that Joseph, Julian and Mary possessed and how to apply these to their leadership. They also shared ideas for taking action on issues around social justice ranging from Asylum Seekers and Refugees, to Care for the Environment, and World Peace. During the conference the leaders truly learnt what it meant to be a Josephite, fighting for Justice in our schools and communities. JJAMM provided the environment for the students to grow in their leadership and to prepare to lead their schools in the tradition of the Sisters of St Joseph.

JJAMM Reflection by Rita Alsamani

The JJAMM retreat gave me an opportunity to change my perspective on leadership, being surrounded by a positive environment and supportive fellow leaders. Their passion for social justice issues reminded me that my most important goal in life is to stand up for the disadvantaged and migrants, striving to make a difference as much as possible in my role as the College Faith Captain.

The JJAMM retreat was a significant experience, especially hearing from speakers like Sister Susan Connelly, a Sister of St Joseph who has been advocating for government transparency. I’ve learned that seeking justice is significant to bring peace and equality back into this world. My appreciation and understanding of Mary MacKillop’s advice to “never see a need without doing something about it” has grown as a result of this retreat. There were so many activities during the retreat that made me realise the numerous things I could do for my college and the benefits that our leadership team could provide. I came to see that being a leader isn’t about what I could accomplish on my own, but rather about how our team can work collaboratively to improve the college. We also held nighttime events where we demonstrated our skills, talents, and gifts through singing, dancing, talent shows, and protests. For me, all of these activities built up a more optimistic outlook and attitude towards leadership. It was fascinating to see how diverse yet similar everyone is despite coming from various schools and backgrounds which further united us together. Our differences drew us closer. Hence, I was able to come out of my shell at this retreat and make new friends.

I would like to express my appreciation to Sister Jan, for teaching us how to be true, faithful leaders like Mary MacKillop and last but not least, I would especially like to express my gratitude to Mrs Flanagan for accompanying us and overseeing the whole trip and to Josette Grima, the College Vice-Captain for her companionship and dedication to service.