When Luke Ferguson was named ACT Local Hero of the Year, it’s likely no-one was celebrating more than the students at The Woden School, a high school catering to the needs of students with disabilities.
After all, the school has been renowned for musical celebrations since Luke established Party Down Productions, an inclusive school-wide music program. The program engages students in all aspects of event planning, from teaching them to use Photoshop to make posters, choose set playlists to performing as DJs at lunchtime school discos.
Through the program, Luke has helped to break down barriers, remove stigma and enhance the self-esteem of young people with disability.
“For me, music has always been the great leveller in life,” Luke said.
“I’ve always had a music background and taught instruments. I can see how music can make a difference whether it’s listening to it and having it change your mood, or if you’re creating it.
“Through the program the students develop different skills – graphic design, event organisation and music. The important thing for me is that it’s student led. Even during lockdown we didn’t stop; the discos continued from students’ living rooms.”
In 2018, helped by the students at The Woden School, Luke co-wrote and produced the music video “Labels Don't Define Us” – a song about accepting diversity. The video, starring the students, went viral with more than 120,000 views and was shared by the United Nations on their Social Development Network website.
Next month, Party Down Productions will also produce a half hour disco for the International Day of People with Disabilities on 3 December, which will be made available to schools in Canberra.
“I think doing something like this really shines a light on inclusivity,” Luke said.
“There’s a sense of pride from the students and such an increase in their confidence.”
For now, Luke is looking forward to celebrating his win with the students at The Woden School.
“I feel really honoured to be recognised by the awards, but more thrilled for the students to get that recognition,” he said.
“They’ve made an amazing effort over the last few years. I’m just thrilled for them. I know the award is Local Hero but these kids are the real heroes.”
Meet the ACT Local Hero of the Year - ACT Government
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