Blog

For many young people, the end of Year 12 marks a momentous transition. For Stars Foundation’s First Nations Graduates in Western Australia, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with an unforgettable journey, one that rewards hard work, perseverance, and dedication to Stars’ values.

In early 2024, Stars Foundation offered Year 12 students the chance to earn their place on an inspiring interstate trip at the end of the school year. These young women embraced the challenge, meeting academic goals, staying on track with future pathways, and consistently embodying the values that underpin the Stars’ mission.

A Journey of Discovery from Western Australia to Sydney

Eighteen Stars Graduates, joined by six Mentors, recently departed Perth to experience the vibrancy of Sydney. Traveling from Kalgoorlie, Bunbury, Warnbro, and Perth the group represented five schools across south-eastern Western Australia including Eastern Goldfields College, Newton Moore Senior High School, Warnbro Community High School, Lynwood Senior High School and Gilmore College. For most of the students, it was their first visit to the city, a shared adventure that fostered connection and growth.

Highlights included visits to Madame Tussauds and the Walangari Karntawarra Bondi Aboriginal Walking Tours, where students deepened their appreciation of First Nations culture. The group also explored iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Sydney Tower Eye, with every activity broadening horizons.

Building Confidence and Independence

Stars Regional Manager for south-eastern WA, Judy Punch, reflected on the transformative nature of the trip.

“Part of this trip is about showing the young women the power of getting comfortable and being out of their comfort zone. For example, some of the girls found it challenging to be away from their families and showed great determination to overcome home sickness, while a couple of the girls were able to overcome their anxiety flying in a plane and two other students conquered their fear of heights when visiting the Sydney Tower Eye,” said Judy Punch.

“It was also great for our Graduates to experience travel and to try new things, ranging from as simple as eating out in restaurants to visiting the Sydney Bridge Museum and galleries. It’s a terrific opportunity for students to enjoy this close-knit travel experience before starting their next chapter, whether it be employment or further studies.

“Some of our Mentors have known these students since they started in Year 7, which made this adventure even more of a milestone moment for everyone involved. It reinforced the critical role Stars Mentors play in tracking, supporting and guiding students to be their best.”

Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead

For the students, the trip was a celebration of achievement and a source of inspiration.

“This Sydney trip was one of the best gifts I have ever received. I will be forever thankful that Stars has given me this opportunity to travel to Sydney with my closest friends to see multiple different places in Sydney that were fun and enjoyable. The whole trip felt like a dream that came to life, thank you,” said Taliarnna from Eastern Goldfields College, Kalgoorlie, WA.

“It was an amazing experience, not only that I had so much fun, but I met new and amazing people. I would tell the next set of Year 12s that they definitely need to go because it was the coolest trip ever!” said Shelby from Gilmore College, Perth, WA.

“The trip to Sydney was an eye-opening experience that I’m truly grateful and thankful for as it allowed me to have a firsthand experience of the cultural history of Bondi and Sydney,” said Makayla from Eastern Goldfields College, Kalgoorlie, WA.

Preparing for Life Beyond School

As the trip concluded, the young women shared their aspirations, ranging from careers in justice and childcare to roles in retail and business. For many, the journey was more than just a reward—it was a stepping stone to independence, confidence, and ambition.

Expanding Horizons Across Australia

Stars Foundation offers end of school trips like these to Graduates across the country. Students from Geraldton Senior High School recently embarked on their own adventure to Brisbane, celebrating their successes and building a vision for the future, as featured in the 2-minute video below.

Supporting Stars Graduates

With more than 200 Stars Graduates in 2024, the future is bright. Each story reflects the impact of Stars Foundation’s mission to mentor and empower First Nations girls and young women, helping them realise their full potential.

We wish all Stars Graduates a well-deserved break and a wonderful first year out of school pursing their goals and fulfilling their dreams. The Stars Transitions Team will be on hand to positively support the Graduates as they take the next steps in their journey.  Well done 2024 Graduates!