Helping career dreams come true

CAREER dreams may soon become reality for two local students who have received funding for their vocational goals.

Portland’s Lila Barker and Heywood resident Djakira Hope were both successful in receiving $3,000 scholarships as part of the Glenelg Shire Council’s Aboriginal Education Scholarship program, which will be used to cover the financial costs of their tertiary level studies.

Miss Barker, a proud Peerapper woman, is currently in Year 12 at Bayview College and endeavours to undertake a Bachelor of Pharmacy at La Trobe University in 2026.

“Education means a great deal to me… this scholarship is an amazing opportunity and one that I am very thankful for,” she said.

“My aspiration is to attend university next year. I hope to pursue a career as a pharmacist, whether that’s working in a community chemist or hospital setting.

“I have always wanted to go into healthcare and through my love of chemistry and biology, I discovered I could be a pharmacist.”

In addition to her VCE studies, Miss Barker is also completing a Certificate II in Aboriginal Leadership.

“This course is helping me strengthen my knowledge and pride. I am grateful for this opportunity as it has helped me to connect on a deeper level with my culture,” she reflected.

Miss Hope, a proud Gunditjmara and Gunai Kurnai woman, will use the scholarship to cover costs of her Bachelor of Social Work degree, which she is currently undertaking through Deakin University.

“Growing up in Heywood and being involved with Winda-Mara Aboriginal Corporation… has allowed me to achieve things I didn’t think were possible for me,” she said.

“That is why I am completing my Bachelor of Social Work so I can give back to my community and show our children that anything you want, you can make happen.

“This scholarship will help support me while I am away studying and allow me to bring back skills and knowledge to benefit our community.”

Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Karen Stephens congratulated the successful applicants.

“I applaud the efforts of these students who have built strong aspirations for their futures and are an inspiration to many,” she said.

“Research shows that only two out of 10 Aboriginal students within the Glenelg Shire are staying at school to complete year 12 study. These grants are an important catalyst to create change and reverse this trend.”

The Glenelg Shire Council Aboriginal Education Scholarship program was launched in 2014 and aims to encourage Glenelg Shire based Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander residents to study beyond year 12.

Each year Council offers two scholarships to help cover the costs of course fees and requirements, travel, tutoring or uniforms at school, university or TAFE.

To learn more, visit: www.glenelg.vic.gov.au/Our-Community/Aboriginal-Education-Scholarships