Western Sydney University supports high school students to defy limitations

Kellie Burke, from Western Sydney University’s The Academy, Claudia Wijaya (Leader of Ryan House), Sara Hodge (School Captain), Isabella Riitano (Year 12 SRC Leader), Maria El Hachem and Tram Nguyen

Students from Catherine McAuley High School have held the No Limitations Festival to promote cultural diversity after participating in a 2018 Youth Leadership Masterclass with Western Sydney University’s program for high-achievers, The Academy.

The six Year 11 students presented the winning student pitch at the 2018 Youth Leadership Masterclass, receiving $1000 in funding and mentoring support from The Academy to bring the festival to life.

“The students have demonstrated a year-long commitment to plan and execute this event. The Festival promoted inclusivity, understanding and equality within the community and gave students the opportunity to listen, participate and learn about each other,” said Joanne Dae, Year 11 Coordinator and Project supervisor.

School Captain and Year 12 student, Sara Hodge, said the festival encouraged students to accept others for who they are.

“It’s incredibly important that we come together to learn, experience and understand the multicultural value and equality that is presented to us in this beautiful community that is Catherine McAuley,” said Sara.

Along with enjoying games, stalls, food and performances recognising the heritage and diversity within the school community, students heard from a series of speakers including representatives of the Indigenous student committee ‘Strong Sisters’, Wendy Truelove from Western Sydney University’s Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Program and Kellie Burke from Western Sydney University's The Academy.

“Community engagement and leadership is at the heart of The Academy where students receive support to develop into globally minded scholars. It was a pleasure working with the students from Catherine McAuley High School who demonstrated their ability to bring their school community together,” said Professor Jonathon Allen, Head of The Academy.

The Academy is Western Sydney University’s program for high-achieving students and is committed to providing individuals with the opportunity to be active and engaged citizens.

For more information on The Academy, please visit the Western Sydney University website (opens in a new window).

ENDS

8 May 2019

Media Unit