Re-entry Workshop supports alumni in transitioning back home

A group of eight Australia Awards Africa alumni who recently returned to their home countries gathered in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 5 and 6 November 2025 for the second Re-entry Workshop of the year.

The Re-entry workshops play a vital role in supporting alumni as they reintegrate into their home environments, workplaces, and communities. They are designed to help alumni maximise their potential to contribute meaningfully to national development upon their return. A central focus of this workshop was the finalisation of participants’ Re-integration Action Plans (RAPs), which outline their development goals, planned activities, and success indicators. On Day 2, alumni presented their RAPs to fellow delegates, fostering peer learning and accountability.

Dr. Stella Punungwe, a mental health expert and alumna of the Program, shared valuable insights on the emotional and psychological aspects of readjusting to life back home. Other key topics included: Leading Change When You’re Not in Charge; Leading Change for Development; Becoming Australia Awards Alumni; The Women in Leadership Network and The Role of Alumni Associations. 

On the evening of 5 November, alumni had the opportunity to network with new scholars attending their Pre-Departure Briefing (PDB) at the same venue. The following day featured a joint session where alumni shared their experiences and practical advice through a panel discussion and speed networking. For the new 2026 scholars who attended the PDB, the opportunity to gain fresh perspectives from the alumni proved to be especially valuable.

By the end of the workshop, alumni left with renewed clarity, motivation, and commitment to implementing their RAPs and serving as change agents in their workplaces and communities.