Politics an interest for spirited student

DAMASCUS College student Demi Schaper has received the Premier of Victoria’s Spirit of Democracy Award.

Entering year 11 in 2023, the Greek history and art-lover submitted a creative work and statement of intent to the competition, with a letter of support from college principal Steven Mifsud.

The award’s aim is to encourage young people to explore their view of democracy, and its impact on their lives.

“The piece is of Julia Gillard who in parliament on 9th October 2012 highlighted misogyny in a speech, and was the first, and still only, female Prime Minister of Australia,” she said.

Coincidentally, the Schaper family were touring Parliament House on the day of the speech, and watched on from the gallery as it was delivered by the then-PM.

“The misogyny speech inspired women and girls everywhere,” Demi said. “I also researched ancient Greece where women didn’t have a place in politics, and my artwork is inspired by classical Greek pottery.

“I used Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and battle strategy, which I believe reflects Ms Gillard’s passionate delivery and further represents parliament today where women have representation but advances in equality need to be made.”

Demi’s mum Peta Schaper saw the Spirit of Democracy competition advertised and suggested her daughter enter.

“She loves her Greek history so it fits really well with her passion,” Ms Schaper said. “She’s a creative soul, likes art, and is interested in people.”

Demi’s prize is a seven-day study tour of Melbourne and Canberra alongside 22 other secondary students, with visits to places like the Hellenic Museum and the Australian War Memorial.

“I’m really excited to learn more about Australian democracy, and to get to know people who feel the same,” she said.

“It’s really important to engage with and understand democracy. It’s part of everyday life.”