Gaurav finished a law degree at the University of Western Sydney last year and started with the IEU at Christmas.
He first came to the attention of IEU in 2014 under the Union Summer program organised by Unions NSW, which provides internships for students.
During his three-week internship Gaurav helped out at the Union’s stall at the University of Western Sydney’s Edfest, a recruitment event for teaching graduates, which he describes as an “amazing experience”.
He’s looking forward to being able to advise young teachers.
“Young teachers starting their first job will be worried about accreditation and their new role. In most cases, they will sign their contract of employment without actually being aware of their rights and entitlements should any grievances come up in the future,” Gaurav said.
“I am looking forward to being able to explain what the Union is and how it can help them.”
While teachers are still “authority figures” to him, he is confidant he will be able to communicate and relate with older teachers as well.
“I’m out there to listen and when I go into schools I hope anybody will feel comfortable approaching me.”
As well as young teachers Gaurav is interested in recruiting more support staff to the Union.
While he was a student Gaurav volunteered at a community legal centre in Toongabbie, providing legal advice to struggling families and dealing with domestic violence issues.
He has a strong sense of social justice which will influence his work at the IEU.
He’s looking forward to getting out to schools in the Penrith and Blue Mountains Branch area, many of which are close to his Plumpton home.
Contact: gaurav@ieu.asn.au