The business of legacy: 2025 Jillian Weaven Scholar shines

The business of legacy: 2025 Jillian Weaven Scholar shines

RMIT student and proud TiaKanna Warrana man from Frankston, Kyle O’Brien, is the proud recipient of the 2025 Jillian Weaven Scholarship.

The scholarship honours the legacy of Wiradjuri woman and former RMIT leader, Jillian Weaven. Her commitment to education, equity and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities lives on through this program. 

“It means a lot and I’ve taken it as a big honour,” said Kyle. 

Kyle is a testament to the values this program represents. His involvement in community and commitment to work integrated learning is inspiring.   

It’s a boost of confidence and a reminder that the work I’m doing matters. I’m proud to represent my community and excited to keep pushing forward. 
Recipient of the 2025 Jillian Weaven Scholarship, Kyle O'Brien. Recipient of the 2025 Jillian Weaven Scholarship, Kyle O'Brien.

As a second year Business (Marketing) student, Kyle already brings a strong community focus, work ethic and a desire to uplift others through business. Working across two Indigenous-owned businesses — Bayside Treeworks and TJS Accounting — he is committed to gaining hands-on experience in both operational and finance-based roles.  

It’s been a really great experience. Working in two very different industries has taught me a lot about how Indigenous values can shape good business. A highlight has been seeing how both teams support community and getting the job done. 

Kyle’s active involvement in the Indigenous business network through Kinaway events allows him to regularly engage in community advocacy and cultural events. 

“Kinaway events are something I am new too and have been awesome; they are great for meeting mob and feeling connected. Highlights of the event are getting to know other business and before you know it everyone knows each other, and you feel a real sense of community.” 

Kyle working at Bayside Treeworks Kyle working for Indigenous-owned business Bayside Treeworks.

Advice to future students

As the 2025 recipient, Kyle is passionate about encouraging other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to apply in the future. 

“Give it a shot, be real about who you are and what you want to do. Talk about your goals and how you want to make an impact.” 

Originally open to female-identifying Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students studying Human Resources within the College of Business and Law, the scholarship has now expanded. From 2025, all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the College of Business and Law, regardless of gender or discipline, are eligible to apply, opening the door to future recipients. 

Find out more about the Jillian Weaven Scholarship on the RMIT student website. 

01 July 2025

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous cultures