A world of opportunities at Indigenous Girls Academy

24 June 2024
Two high schools stand behind a restaurant training bar, smiling at the camera, with an array of drink-making equipment in front of them on the bench. Someone stands in front of them taking a photo
Students were excited to have hands-on experience in various vocational education and training pathways

By Sala Mkoka

First Nations high schoolers from Mount Morgan and Baralaba State Schools converged at CQUniversity Rockhampton North for an Indigenous Girls Academy Camp, where the students were shown a world of opportunity for future careers, skills and training throughout the three-day program.

Led by CQUniversity in partnership with Matana Foundation for Young People, the program is in its second iteration as part of a four-year agreement between the University and the two state schools, aimed at providing career guidance, work experience, mentorship, and workplace engagement opportunities for Indigenous high school girls in years 7 – 12.

CQU Future Students Senior Officer Katie Wallace said the camp was designed to give the girls an insight into university life and provide them with the skills and experiences that they can apply in their everyday lives during and after high school. 

Two high school girls work together in a commercial kitchen making chicken skewers
Students tried their hands at Cookery, plating up their very own dishes

“Through this program we’re able to provide insight to the girls to prepare them for their high school years and beyond by showcasing what opportunities are available when they complete school,” Ms Wallace said. 

“We’re also providing support to families in need through the program by supplying school uniforms, book packs, and tuckshop vouchers which really assists the girls’ wellbeing in being able to flourish while at school, which in turn increases retention rates.”

33 high schoolers were in attendance at this year’s academy, experiencing a variety of education and training options with hands-on experience in hospitality and cookery, beauty, fitness, and arts, as well as learning soft skills such as preparing for job interviews.

“It’s wonderful to be able to guide the girls in establishing what they’re interested in and opening their minds to so many other options and pathways that are out there,” Ms Wallace said.

“Through those interests we can help them realise these are things they can study and get a career out of.

“From there, they’re able to go back to their community and share their experiences, and hopefully it will have a ripple effect on the younger generation.”

First Nations high schoolers from Mount Morgan and Baralaba State Schools converged at CQUniversity Rockhampton North for an Indigenous Girls Academy Camp, where the students were shown a world of opportunity for future careers, skills and training throughout the three-day program.