Leadership program inspires Indigenous youth

Inspiring the pursuit of tertiary education among Indigenous Year 12 students from across Western Australia was the focus of a leadership seminar at The University of Western Australia last week.

Thirty-three students from Albany, Australind, Broome, Derby, Esperance, Kalgoorlie, Katanning, Mandurah, Narrogin, Newman, Northam, Port Hedland and the Perth metropolitan area attended the seminar, which was organised by UWA’s School of Indigenous Studies.

“During the five-day trip, students visited some of UWA’s schools on campus and participated in hands-on activities that helped them learn about their future study options and opportunities."

Brendon DeGois

Brendon DeGois, from UWA’s School of Indigenous Studies, said the seminar gave students an opportunity to build networks and friendships with other participants while meeting current Indigenous students studying at the University.

“During the five-day trip, students visited some of UWA’s schools on campus and participated in hands-on activities that helped them learn about their future study options and opportunities,” Mr DeGois said.

“The students also attended an Aboriginal Voices lecture presented to current Indigenous students undertaking the University’s Aboriginal Orientation Course.”

More than 30 students visited some of UWA’s schools and participated in hands-on activities.

During the seminar - which was supported by Rio Tinto - students were provided with information about UWA entry pathways, scholarships and other information to help transition to university. They were also given tours of the University’s residential colleges and participated in study, cultural and self-esteem workshops.

“This experience has given me an idea of what I can do with my future, and because of the doors it has opened, I’ll be the first person in my family to consider university study."

Leila, Year 12 student

Year 12 student Leila, from Hedland Senior High School in the Pilbara region, said it was difficult to pursue opportunities for tertiary study when living in communities in the State’s north.

“This experience has given me an idea of what I can do with my future, and because of the doors it has opened, I’ll be the first person in my family to consider university study,” she said.

Year 12 student Kaleb, from Ellenbrook Secondary College, said the highlight of the trip was meeting people and developing connections with the university community.

“This leadership seminar has opened up my eyes to all the potential possibilities that university has to offer,” he said.

Since 1988, UWA’s School of Indigenous Studies has supported more than 500 Indigenous students to graduate in a wide variety of fields. For some participants it will be their first visit to UWA, however many are already familiar with the campus, having visited as part of the School’s outreach programs.