AIEF GRADUATION

The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) held its annual Year 12 Graduation event on Monday 17 August at Taronga Zoo, Sydney. Our magnificent seven of Cordelle, Larvo, Jakaiah, Taiijh, Azalia, Panai and Kadawa braved the rain and the cold to celebrate the achievement of the completion of Year 12 with the help of an AIEF scholarship.

The AIEF graduating class of 2026 comprised of more than 80 students from 58 communities. For our magnificent seven, they were representing six different communities and St Patrick’s College Townsville with pride. From the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo, it was quite the experience. Our magnificent seven stepped into their power on the stage and made some new friends along the way.

Larvo gave a speech at the formal evening event where she showcased her journey and her deep gratitude for all those who had supported her along the way. The second day was spent in Redfern at the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence (NCIE); the girls were networking with employers and educational institutions about future opportunities and began the process of becoming AIEF alumni. For the girls, it was also an opportunity to reflect on how far they had come and reset ready for a strong finish to their school years at the College.

Joanne Gilmore

ASSISTANT DEAN OF BOARDING – ACADEMIC