Join Now
The Home Economics Institute of Australia Inc. (HEIA) is the peak professional body for home economists in Australia. HEIA advocates for the interests of professionals working in education, industry, community health, consumer affairs, and family and hous

Faces of HEIA – Dr Sandra Fordyce-Voorham


14th April 2025
By HEIA Inc.

Dr Sandra Fordyce Voorham HEIA.png   Getting to know HEIA Council 

 

1. Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to the HEIA Council?
I have been a teacher of home economics for most of my professional life, and more recently, I have worked with neuro-diverse young adults in the TAFE sector. With a gradual scaling back of my face-to-face classroom teaching, I have found I now have more time to give back to the Institute that has supported my professional journey for over 40 years. That is what brought me to the HEIA Council — a desire to contribute to an organisation that has given me so much.

2. What do you enjoy most about being part of the HEIA Council, and what is a recent highlight from your involvement?
What I enjoy most is the camaraderie — connecting with both new and long-standing members of the Institute. It is inspiring to share in HEIA’s values and ethos as we continue the work of past Council members, building on the strong foundations they have laid and serving the professional needs of home economists across Australia. A recent highlight for me was receiving a fellowship from the Institute. It was a true honour to have my long-standing membership and service to the home economics profession — at the state, national, and international levels — recognised in this way.

3. How do you see your role on the Council contributing to HEIA’s goals and future?
As the convenor of the Membership Standing Committee, I see this role as a great opportunity to grow our membership across all divisions. I am committed to helping consolidate HEIA’s financial strength and promote the Institute as the peak body for home economics in Australia.

4. What advice would you give to members looking to get more involved with HEIA’s committees or initiatives?
My advice would be to get involved! There’s so much value in participating — not just by attending events, but also by helping to organise professional development and other initiatives. It is a great way to contribute to the profession, develop new skills, and connect with like-minded colleagues across the country.

<< Previous | Next >>