Sonya Thompson, MA, MALP, has taught in the subject areas of history and politics for over thirty years, much of that time with the WEA. Sonya holds postgraduate degrees in history, law and government. Her studies focussed on Australian history and international relations. Sonya believes the study of history is important because we need to understand the past to truly understand the present. Sonya embraces the opportunity the WEA provides to share learning with students and to exchange experiences and viewpoints. Sonya believes that learning should be about challenging views and perceptions, including her own.