2021 SEMESTER 2 NEWSLETTER
Four More Reasons to Celebrate 2021 Graduates Four young Indigenous women have graduated from high school on Thursday 17 November 2021 in Cairns. The four women graduated from a special assistance independent school that caters for Indigenous girls and mothers who need a second chance at education. The event took place at Palm Cove Surf Club at 6pm. Staff, students and families all attended this special event. The graduates arrived in a vintage limousine as the students awaited and applauded the class of 2021. The driver laid the red carpet onto the pathway as they strutted and greeted the crowd. Everyone looked stunning and was dressed up for this very special occasion. The four graduates everyone celebrated were Bon’Naia, a young Kuku Yalanji/Merium Mer woman along with Aaliyah, a Djabugay/ PNG/Fiji woman, Estherlita, an Alawa/Rambarrnga woman and Bianca Ganambarr, a strong Maung woman and a wonderful Mum to Deledio. Unfortunately Bianca was unable to attend the graduation ceremony, however her academic achievements whilst
being a young Mum, were acknowledged, celebrated, and provide inspiration for future students. Each of these students spent two to three years showing resilience and determination to complete their schooling. Their achievement is one to celebrate. Bon’Naia Hinton delivered a heart-warming and emotional speech as tears of joy were shed among the students. She spoke about her journey and experiences at this school. Aaliyah Brim was second to speak and she spoke about the happy moments during school and boarding. Her speech made everyone laugh and cry at the same time. Estherlita Forbes was the final speaker as she thanked and gave special mention to all the people who helped her during her time at school. The night ended with enjoyment in dancing, taking photos and singing. Staff and students expressed that the four graduating students and Deledio will be sorely missed. AUTHORS: A collaboration of Girl Academy students: Verona, Calista, Naydia, Ada, Edwina, Irene, Olivia, and Thaarah.
Aaliyah Brim (left), Estherlita Forbes (middle) and Bon'Naia Hinton (right) getting ready for their graduation night
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