In 2024, Ataea and Sophie travelled to Canberra ACT to attend the Together for Humanity National Youth Summit, proudly representing student voice for the first time at this platform from a CaRE schools’ perspective. Sophie and Ataea were selected for this opportunity due to their interests in human rights, social justice and community inclusion. They were required to identify a youth issue, research and prepare a presentation to deliver at Federal Parliament House to students, education professionals and elected federal ministers. Both presented a moving speech and profound insight into the impacts of violence against women and concerns of community safety, respect and social representation. As a school community, we are incredibly proud of their demonstration of care, confidence, cultural inclusion, and authentic leadership to inspire action for social change.
Ataea completed her studies at The Y School in 2024, attaning the highest weighted mark in the UniPrep for School program, delivered in collaboration with ECU. She was granted an Indigenous Merit Scholarship to begin undergraduate preparation studies at UNSW and began relocating to Sydney to pursue her first-choice study preferences. Ataea was accepted into the UNSW Bachelor of Social Work, where she has continued her studies and is expecting to graduate in 2027.
Sophie is now a Year 12 student and currently enrolled in the UniPrep for School program, working toward achieving her ATAR equivalency of 70 to pursue tertiary studies. Sophie was accepted into the Youth Parliament program and delivered speeches in the WA State Parliament, developing skills in policy research, debating, and working alongside political representatives. Sophie has her sights set on human rights law and policy advocacy.
Ataea and Sophie have had remarkable journeys in overcoming personal and social challenges to continue their education and meaningful community contributions. Their determination, openness to change, ability to challenge themselves, and celebrate key moments of success and empowerment have given them the tools to flourish.
