Question Everything: A Conversation with Rekindle Trustee Aubrey Rogers
From his own early experiences of bias in education to a lifelong commitment to community, Aubrey shares why critical thinking, opportunity and speaking up matter now more than ever.
1. What drew you to join Rekindle as a trustee?
Darren introduced me to rekindle. I was intrigued to know more about the organisation as I am very keen on encouraging young people to think critically and have opinions beyond the school syllabus. I came to an event for the elderly members in the community and felt really at home. From there, I became a trustee.
2. When you think about your path so far, what have been the biggest turning points?
A big turning point was changing schools at 5. I had a terrible experience in my first primary school. As a 5-year-old, you don’t understand bias and discrimination. Once I changed schools, my education took off, and I became studious and excited to go to school. This changed my path and is another reason I am so passionate about projects like Rekindle because the environment is just as important as resources when it comes to educating young people.
3. You’ve been involved in community-focused roles, from sports coaching to board positions in CICs. What does community mean to you?
I have always been active in community initiatives since I was a child. My father and mother have both been involved in many programs during my youth. I grew up helping and attending lots of programs in my local community. Having been so connected from a young age, I have always been passionate about giving my time and energy to try and support as many positive initiatives as possible.
4. If you could share one message with the young people Rekindle works with, what would it be?
Stay educated and updated, but don’t let your thoughts be dedicated.
Absorb as much information as you can. Read, talk, watch and more importantly, listen, but question everything. Always feel free to ask questions, whether you are trying to better understand or just express your opinion. Don’t feel intimidated to disagree with the crowd.
6. As someone who has worked both in grassroots sport and in financial services, what lessons do you take from these different worlds?
The main thing to take away is that when working in a team or alone, you always need people. As a young man, it is very easy to feel that you have to do things alone and accepting help means you’re incapable of doing things for yourself. But this is not the case; when people open doors for you, always walk through, and when you get the chance to return the favour to others, do so.
7. Are there role models or stories that have particularly inspired you?
My parents inspired me a lot growing up. Seeing them come from very little and achieve academic and career success. Witnessing this also made me believe that when given the opportunities, anyone can be successful, and people need these opportunities to be available. I found great role models through my educators. Teachers, headteachers, mentors and lecturers, many of whom I still keep in touch with to this day.
8. What excites you most about Rekindle’s mission right now?
The expansion of Rekindle right now is really exciting. People from all around the country are taking note. The energy and enthusiasm are amazing, and as our brand and name are growing, hopefully, external support can also help improve our ability to achieve more.
