Right now, many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are facing barriers to achieving their education aspirations. One of the key hurdles is the cost of studying and, as a result, Indigenous Australian students are disproportionately underrepresented in the higher education system.
Education is a proven way to break cycles of disadvantage. As a determined educator, Saint Mary MacKillop broke through the prejudice of her time to educate all, regardless of their situation.
Recent scholarship recipient, Hayden, decided on his dream to become a lawyer after seeing the injustices that Indigenous Australian people face. Hayden dedicated himself to many years of study for his Bachelor of Law. But he was also up against financial barriers that sometimes made his dreams feel unattainable.
Thanks to generous supporters, Hayden had the opportunity to apply for a scholarship with Mary MacKillop Today.
“Honestly, without the scholarship I wouldn’t have finished the degree. The scholarship meant I didn’t have to worry about finances while I studied. I recently graduated with Honours and I’ve been offered a position with Victorian Legal Aid through their Indigenous graduate lawyer program. I’m excited about working on Indigenous issues in this new role. My people haven’t been noticed for generations. So, to have somebody emerge from the community as a lawyer to stand and speak for the people means they can all have a voice through me.” – Hayden, scholarship recipient.
Hayden’s inspiring story shows just how powerful education is for providing opportunities – and that scholarships really do work!
Please donate now to help continue Mary’s legacy and support aspiring students through life-changing First Nations scholarships.
