Esther’s Story

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Living with a grateful heart

My name is Esther Knowles and I grew up in Pilliga, in North Western NSW. I am a Gamilaroi woman and my totem is the Sand Goanna. I come from a large family – I am one of six siblings. Growing up in Pilliga, school life was a lot different. It was rather relaxed to say the least. Sure, we had a school uniform, but to say Kambala’s standards are a little different would be an understatement! I had to learn that my shoes needed to be polished, I must wear the correct uniform and wear my blazer.

However, if it was not for Yalari and their supporters, I would not have this opportunity. I found out about Yalari from my Principal, Mr Lord at Pilliga Primary School. He saw that I had potential to attend boarding school and suggested that I apply for a scholarship. I wanted to better my education and receive an opportunity that I knew I wouldn’t receive back home at the local high school.

I clearly remember my interview; my mum and I were waiting at the local park for 10 minutes. Karen and Gary then pulled up in a car with the Yalari logo on the side. I was asked lots of questions about why I deserve a Yalari scholarship, how I would cope with homesickness and being away from family. I felt so nervous because I wanted it so much, but I wasn’t sure if I was going to receive a scholarship. After they interviewed me, Karen and Gary then politely asked me to leave to answer more questions on a piece of paper while they spoke to my mum. I tried my hardest to hear what they were saying wondering if they already had decided. When I found out that I had been selected, I was filled with so much happiness and was so proud of myself. I, Esther Knowles, was one step closer to reaching my goal of gaining a top education.

I enjoy my time boarding at Kambala. I have many new friends and I am fortunate that I get to call them my second family. I’ve been given many opportunities at Kambala. In Year 8, I started singing lessons. I would love to also learn how to play the piano. I’ve also been selected to participate in World Challenge next year where we will travel to Ecuador for a month, helping those who are less fortunate. My favourite subjects at school are elective history, photography and maths. My maths teacher Ms Jensen has made my time so far at Kambala more enjoyable — she is always smiling, and always helps me when I don’t understand the work. I have since realised that I enjoy maths!

Kambala and Yalari have taught me many lessons and given me important values. I have learned to be an independent young woman which will help me in the future. I look up to Waverley, Llew and the older Yalari girls at Kambala, as they have inspired me to set goals and dreams. I have formed a special bond with them that I am so grateful for.

When I finish school, I want to pursue a career in law and human rights as I want to make a difference to people’s lives, especially within the Indigenous community. I would like to study overseas in America at one of their universities.

I would especially like to say thank you to those who support Yalari. You have and will continue to make an impact on individuals like me. Without your generosity and kindness it would not be possible for Yalari to offer these scholarships. You are helping the students, including me become the future Indigenous leaders.

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When I finish school, I want to pursue a career in law and human rights as I want to make a difference to people’s lives, especially within the Indigenous community.

ESTHER KNOWLES YEAR 9 YALARI SCHOLAR - KAMBALA

Esther’s story is made possible by the generous support of the Australian Government.