Port Augusta’s Sarah Mayhew to tackle unique Fijian sojourn

Port Augusta resident, Sarah Mayhew, is heading on a rare overseas adventure on 5 April, embarking on the Credit Union Foundation Australia (CUFA) Fijian Leadership Challenge.

Mrs Mayhew is representing her employer, leading credit union Community CPS Australia, and was selected from a number of applicants from Community CPS Personal Financial Centres (PFC) across the country.

Community CPS is sponsoring Mrs Mayhew’s participation in the 12-day program, which aims to contribute to financial education and understanding in disadvantaged local communities.

The trip is designed to challenge participants emotionally, culturally and intellectually, while also allowing them to further their leadership skills and act as advocates of the mutual banking sector in communities where access to financial services is minimal.

Despite having concerns about the five-day kayaking challenge involved and a fear of sharks, Sarah is excited Community CPS has given her the opportunity to participate in the Challenge.

"Coming from a very community minded family helping others has always been an important part of my life. My parents acted as foster parents for many children who came from a troubled background and needed a loving home for a certain period of time, which has certainly left a mark on me," said Mrs Mayhew.

"Following my parents’ example, especially now that I have two young sons of my own, I really wanted to get involved in this project to help families plan their financial future."

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me and I am very grateful to be a part of this great initiative. I have been training for weeks now, including running and gym sessions and I have also taken some kayaking lessons at the Aquatic Centre, and I am ready to go."

Community CPS PFC Manager in Port Augusta, Matt Leonard, said he was pleased Mrs Mayhew had been chosen for the Challenge, as she was highly committed to helping other communities and was strongly involved in all of the branch’s fundraising projects.

"Sarah is the perfect candidate for this challenge. She is passionate about community support, helping those who are less fortunate than ourselves, and she is a great team player," said Mr Leonard.

As part of Mrs Mayhew’s participation in the Challenge she has committed to raising $3,000 to go towards CUFA’s Oceanic Confederation of Credit Union Leagues ongoing efforts to improve access to financial services across the oceanic region. To support her fundraising efforts, please donate via her website