Under a motivating theme, Inspire Inclusion, this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) invites us to celebrate diversity and empowerment not only on the 8th of March but beyond.
As part of the celebrations of the International Women’s Day 2024 and with the aim to support outstanding Southern Cross University students to achieve their academic dreams, the University has awarded three scholarships worth $5,000 each to three inspiring female students.
Based in Lismore, Bachelor of Art and Design student Emily Davis impressed the judges with her resilience and determination to overcome the odds and pursue her passion. “I had been drawing for years, but here in Lismore (where Emily moved in late 2021 with her husband) I really thrived and expanded. After having my son and losing everything during the 2022 floods, I worked slowly, but class is still the highlight of my week’, said Emily.
“I feel very blessed to be one of the recipients of the International Women’s Day scholarship. I’ve been so encouraged by the women I see around me serving and caring for others. I hope to do the same and become even more involved with local art movements as we see a beautiful work of restoration unfolding in our ravaged city.”
From the Coffs Harbour campus, Bachelor of Education (Primary) student Rachelle Stevens managed to obtain consistently high marks despite juggling two casual jobs whilst studying full-time.
“I am immensely honoured and grateful to be a recipient of the 2024 International Women’s Day scholarship. With my final unpaid practicum approaching, this scholarship eases the financial burden and allows me to focus on my placement. Throughout the year, this scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies and work towards finishing my degree – I am specialising in Science and Technology.”
“I am the first in my family to attend University, and their joy and pride when we connect via Facetime is something I will remember forever,” said Rachelle.
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy with an Indigenous Health major student Georgie Collis was training for the New York Marathon (and raising funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) whilst studying and working part-time.
“I have been a type-1 diabetic since the age of one year old. The New York Marathon was a chance for me to demonstrate that type-1 diabetes should not stop you from chasing your dreams and pushing the limits. I raised over $15,000 AUD. This is my proudest moment to date. I received a lot of support from Southern Cross University community and my local Gold Coast community.”
“I’m extremely grateful and proud of my achievements to receive this scholarship. It’s really encouraging to see the University support me and other women along our educational journey. I will strive to continue studying hard and working towards becoming a competent and friendly occupational therapist. I am hoping to work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities once I have graduated. I would like to apply for a rural or remote placement so I can gain some experience to work in different communities whilst still in a student role,” said Georgie.
