Nikita Make History at St. Martins Luthreran Colleger

The St Martins Lutheran College community recently celebrated the installation of its inaugural Indigenous Student Captain Nikita Anderson.

Nikita is a Ngarrindjeri woman, and an inspired and enthusiastic young leader. Nikita will work closely with students, staff and community members to continue the college’s journey of understanding and connection.

Honoured guests and family members joined the St Martins community on the day to recognise the event.

Amongst them was Boandik Elder Uncle Ken Jones, who has been working with the college to enhance and strengthen student understanding of Aboriginal culture.

On Nikita’s installation he recognised the importance of Nikita’s role in student wellbeing, stating that it was ‘such a beautiful sunny day to celebrate Nikita’s dedication for the college’s students’ well-being’. Also, in attendance for the occasion was Boandik Elder Aunty Michelle Jacquelin-Furr, who has been working with college staff to further enrich connections with local culture and traditions.

Aunty Michelle recognised the potential for the college to continue to build strong positive connections,.

“I was proud today as a First Nations Elder to be part of this ceremony recognising Nikita as the first Indigenous School Captain for St Martins Lutheran College,” Aunty Muichelle said.

“She has strong cultural links with her family and the local community, and is aware that this important role showcases young Aboriginal leaders to our people and the wider community.”

Nikita said as a young First Nations leader, she wanted to step into the role of thisherpeers but also as a means to preserve and continue to nurture the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations.

“My family has been a strong part of that heritage and guidance towards who I am,” she said.

“I am a true representation of resilience, and am supportive on those who are on their own cultural journey.”

Part of Nikita’s role will be to mentor younger Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and to work with college community members, students and staff to continue to develop respectful understandings of and connection to culture and language. Nikita is already brimming with ideas and enthusiasm, and has happily taken her seat amongst other student leaders at the college.

HISTORY MAKING APPOINTMENT: Indigenous Education Coordinator Allison McDonnell, Indigenous Student Captain Nikita Anderson, Acting Principal Kat Elliott, Pastor Jon Gosseling