Indigenous students celebrate next step in their working lives

This is the second year that the University has held the celebration for graduating Indigenous students, their families and friends, as well as key support staff.

The students received a special memento of their time at RMIT – a glass gum leaf designed by Wathaurong Glass, an Indigenous glass design business from Geelong.

Stacey Campton, Director of RMIT’s Ngarara Willim Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, congratulated the students for their hard work and commitment to their studies.

“The Ngarara Willim Centre provides support and encouragement for these students while they’re here,” she said.

“And now that they have finished their studies, they will inspire those around them and be mentors for future generations who follow their lead.”

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Belinda Tynan congratulated the students on their achievements.

“Ngarara Willim, RMIT and I are proud of your achievements and know that the communities you come from will be further enhanced with your expertise when you return,” she said.

Their studies range from photography, visual arts and journalism to education, youth work and applied science.

The University’s graduation ceremony at Etihad Stadium featured a number of celebrations of Indigenous culture, including a Smoking Ceremony featuring 19 didgeridoo players, Welcome to Country by Dr Joy Wandin Murphy, Aboriginal dancers and Torres Strait Islander dancers.

RMIT supports students through Ngarara Willim’s Gama-dji Orientation Program, Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme and the Access Program.

The University also offers Indigenous scholarships for all levels of study.

The new Indigenous Business Creation Scholarship helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with a great entrepreneurial idea to study full-time. It also provides them with a mentor after graduation to help them get their business going.

Story: Louise Handran