Congratulations to Shawna!
A proud Wakka-Wakka woman from Mundubbera, Queensland, Shawna lives and works on beautiful Gadigal land. In 2023, she joined our Indigenous Scholarships Program (ISP) and has now graduated with her Bachelor of Business!
Reflecting on her time in the program, Shawna said, “Being part of the Indigenous Scholarships Program was such a huge help during my studies. The scholarship eased a lot of financial pressure and gave me the space to focus on finishing strong.”
Through ISP, each scholarship recipient is guided by an Individual Career Plan, which they establish with their mentor, ensuring they have all the support and tools required to reach their goals. The delivery of this program is guided by consultation with Traditional Owners to ensure its success. Local Indigenous staff coordinating the program are empowered to adjust the content and delivery to a local community and individualised context.
Speaking on Shawna’s journey, her ISP mentor, Taryn said, “When I first met Shawna she was so excited about her future. She was very grateful for the scholarship opportunity and ready to get through her Bachelor of Business. Watching Shawna on her journey has been very inspiring, she really has grown into such a strong and powerful women!”
“Shawna comes from a small community where not many family members embark on journeys outside, but Shawna embraces her culture, knowledge and dreams to inspire her community by paving the way for those who dream to do the same. As her mentor I could not be any prouder, her knowledge is powerful beyond measure.”
Shawna spoke on what a difference it made to have Taryn as her mentor throughout the program, “Having Taryn walk alongside me, checking in, encouraging me and reminding me of my strengths, made me feel seen and supported. She believed in me even when I doubted myself, and that helped me grow in confidence and direction. I’m so grateful to the Waalitj Foundation and to Taryn for backing me and helping me step into the next chapter of my journey.”
The Indigenous Scholarships program is aimed at increasing the number of Indigenous Australians with tertiary and trade qualifications to enhance employment outcomes, with a specific focus in the resources sector. Waalitj Foundation in partnership with Shell’s QGC business is proud to deliver this program.
