St. Clair student takes home award in provincial video contest

Developmental Services Worker student Dave Andrews, DSW professor and program coordinator Kathryn Hansen and student Onyi Mbamalu pose together during DSW Week in Chatham. (Source: Kathryn Hansen/St. Clair College)

Developmental service worker (DSW) students across the province marked “We Inspire” week this past November, celebrating what about their future career excites them.

A St. Clair College student came home with a win, Dave Andrews produced a video highlighting why he chose to pursue an education in developmental services, and how he advocates for those he supports.

This is the first time that a St. Clair student has brought home the award.

"We all have the ability to inspire change in a world desperately in need," Andrews said. "Speaking as an older student, being in the DSW program at St. Clair this year has given me a much-needed new direction in life and the ability to now see a future both bright and full of possibility, in a field that is near and dear to my heart."

"We’re empowered to be a voice when theirs can’t be heard," said Onyinyechukwu Mbamalu, a fellow student in the DSW program at St. Clair College.

Pioneered at St. Clair, “We Inspire” hopes to promote the work of DSWs, who inspire those with disabilities to live their best lives, promoting independence and inclusion in their community and society. The slogan was then adopted by colleges across the province.