I had the privilege of visiting The Mornington Retirement Village and speaking to the residents about my Beauty with a Purpose Project, Educate Resuscitate, where we discussed the importance of First Aid and CPR training as well as water safety.

When I first arrived, I was greeted warmly by the beautiful residents and before we knew it we had to take our seats as dinner was about to be served! I sat at a table with 5 others (including my mum) where we chatted, laughed, and talked about our experiences growing up around the ocean.

After the main course was served, I had the privilege of talking to all of the residents and informing them about my project and passions for first aid and CPR training. Many of the residents agreed that first aid and CPR training should be included in our high school curriculum, and agreed with my statement that the skill to save a life is universal and crucial.

Some of the residents spoke openly about their experiences with first aid and CPR. The room was full of individuals who had experienced moments themselves where this skillset needed to be implemented and I am gracious for their vulnerability when discussing these confronting topics.

After I spoke, dessert was served before the raffle draw. In my entire life, I don’t think I've ever won a raffle prize, and this night was no different! It was joyous to see the residents receive their prizes most of which were gifts from local businesses. Something that solidified with me deeply after seeing the happiness amongst the residents was how lucky I am to have grown up and live where I do. The community that surrounds us is so intertwined, wholesome, and insightful which instilled the confidence within me that my project and message will be heard not only locally, but nationally and internationally.

I am already excited for my next retirement village visit and can’t thank the residence, staff, and management at The Mornington Retirement Village enough for having me, it was an honour to be able to share with you my passions and my Beauty with a Purpose Project.