Each year, the Stars Alumnae Dinner offers a meaningful opportunity for former Stars students to come together, reflect on their journeys, and honour the shared experiences that continue to shape their lives.
More than just a reunion, it’s a vibrant celebration of sisterhood, leadership, and cultural pride and a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the Stars community.
In April, around 30 Stars Alumnae gathered for a special evening of connection and inspiration in Townsville. Joined by current Year 12 Stars students from Heatley Secondary College, Pimlico State High School and Thuringowa State High School, Mentors, and community members, the dinner was filled with heartfelt conversations, shared laughter, and a sense of belonging.
The Power of Storytelling: Alumnae Inspire the Next Generation
One of the most moving parts of the evening was when three remarkable Stars Alumnae took to the stage to share their personal journeys. Speaking with honesty, courage and pride, each young woman reflected on the strength it has taken to overcome some of their challenges. Their stories weren’t just reflections of resilience; they were living proof of what’s possible with determination, self- belief and support.
For the current Year 12 Stars students, hearing from those who once stood where they now stand was especially powerful. These Alumnae have walked similar paths, carried similar hopes, and are now role models lighting the way forward. Their words resonated and reminded students that they, too, have the strength and determination to achieve their goals.
Memorable Moments as Guest Speakers Share Their Voice
“You can’t be what you can’t see” is a powerful truth. For First Nations Year 12 students, connecting with Stars Alumnae who share their stories and insights offers more than inspiration – it can also provide a roadmap. Former Stars student offered generous personal reflections combined with powerful practical advice on navigating the challenges and opportunities of Year 12, showing what’s possible beyond the school gates.
Ruby, 2023 Stars Graduate, Hairdressing Apprentice at Stefan Hair
(Pictured middle of top row in image above)
“For most of my schooling years I didn’t like school and it was struggle for me and I wanted to give up. It did get better in Grade 9 because I had the support from Stars… Throughout my final years at school I really leaned on Stars for their support, guidance and encouragement… The support from Stars Mentors over the four years I went to Heatley was amazing. Every time I wanted to leave school and give up; they were there to pick me up and give me advice to keep going. Through all the challenges I faced throughout school I’m so proud of myself for getting to the end and graduating – it was worth it! Since leaving school, I now do a hairdressing apprenticeship at Stefan Hair … and my goal is to be qualified and one day to own my own salon… I am really enjoying it, and it is hard work, and I do a lot, but it will be worth it… and it has even helped me buy a brand-new car earlier last year… A piece of advice I would give is never think you can’t do it and when things are hard, talk to someone. I was that kid one day and now I live a good life. To the Year 12s, I know it’s not easy but with the support you guys have, take the opportunity because I’m the prime example that you will get somewhere in the end. Stars was the best thing to happen to me, and I just want to thank the ladies for doing what they do and continue to do for me. I just can’t describe how much Stars changed my life from the day I started in Grade 9,” said Ruby.
Keeley, 2023 Stars Graduate and Geotechnician, Townsville City Council
(Pictured second from right top row in image above)
“Stars Foundation has been an invaluable source of support throughout both my academic journey and beyond. During my time at school, the Foundation provided guidance, encouragement and resources that help me navigate the challenges I faced and ensured I remain focused and motivated…
Even after school, the Stars Foundation continue to support me by offering mentorship and helping me explore new career opportunities. Their unwavering commitment to my personal and professional growth has been instrumental in my success and I’m truly grateful for the continued assistance during both the difficult and rewarding moments of my life… To all the students in their final years of school, my advice to you as someone who experienced life after the classroom is this, life after school isn’t always what you expect and it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. After completing school, I worked two different jobs before I truly found what I wanted to pursue long-term. Along the way I encountered many challenges and moments of uncertainty. There will be hurdles, doubts and setbacks but it’s crucial to push through and trust in yourself. It’s easy to feel lost or unsure at times but remember that each step no matter how difficult, is a part of the journey towards finding what truly excites you. Keep an open mind, stay determined and know that perseverance will lead you to where you’re meant to be,” said Keeley.
Jaeda, 2019 Stars Graduate – On Country Project Officer at Nq Dry Tropics, Queensland Female Youth Governance Representative for the National ROADMAP for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Adolescent Health based in Adelaide and Cultural Heritage Officer for two of her cultural groups.
(Pictured second from left top row in image above).
“We recognise that this land has always been cared for by our people and that we have a deep connection and knowledge to our land and to our culture. Let’s take a moment to reflect on their history, their wisdom, and their strength, and to consider how we can contribute to reconciliation so that we may contribute in building a stronger relationship, fostering understanding and working towards a better future through truth, respect and equality,” said Jaeda to conclude her Acknowledgement of Country.
Trinity, 2022 Stars Graduate and recently completed a traineeship in banking with NAB
(Pictured left in image above)
“I’ve now moved into a house with one of my best friends, I’m on the way to getting my first car, and I’m close to completing my traineeship and having a certificate in banking. I’ve met so many people, and I’ve became a part of a work family that I dearly love. Even though I still have a long way to go I am very proud of how far I’ve come since school… My message for the girls, especially the ones who are freshly graduated is take every opportunity that’s comes your way, no matter how big or small, because at the end of the day those opportunities matter and do make a big difference in your life. Also, stay beautiful, stay strong, and remember you are important,” said Trinity.
Stars Awards for Alumnae
The evening also celebrated the many successes of the past year, shining a light on the achievements of former Stars students and honouring Alumnae who have continued to lead, uplift and contribute to Stars long after finishing school. Their ongoing commitment is a testament to the deep sense of community and purpose that unites the Stars sisterhood.
Stars Foundation acknowledged the following young women with an Alumnae Achievement Award for completing the following achievements.
- Armani: Certificate III in Business
- Imahni: Army training course and currently a full-time Military Police Officer
- Kailia: Certificate III in Business
- Keeley: Certificate III in Business
- Myleisha: Army training course and currently a full-time Warehouse Coordinator.
- Shiquita: Initial Army training and currently employed and training in Victoria
- Tahnee: Certificate IV in Project Management.
Stars Foundation also awarded four Stars Service Awards to acknowledge the young women who have gone above and beyond for Stars and who proudly continue to represent the impact of the organisation over several years.
- Chenice has been willing to share her inspiring story many times during the last year. Chenice also attended the 2025 Year 12 Induction and generously answered questions from around 20 students.
- Jaeda has been out of school since 2020 and has always remained in touch with the Stars team. She embraces the opportunity to share her own personal journey and to educate students on her current job, as well as local indigenous knowledge around plants and caring for Country. In 2024, Jaeda visited two Stars programs and ran lunch time education sessions.
- Minaiyah has always been a willing guest speaker for programs and proudly shares her story with the next generation. Minaiyah also recently took up the opportunity to be an Alumnae Influencer for the new Stars’ digital Alumnae platform, which means she generously volunteers her time to attends regular meetings and helps shape the direction of the app for the broader Alumnae cohort.
- Telita is a “yes” woman and is always ready to assist, whether it’s attending a partner dinner, speaking in front of a camera, or preparing an Alumnae story she makes the time to do it. Telita consistently speaks highly of Stars and shows appreciation for having Stars in her life.
Mentors Share Wisdom with Stars Alumnae
Another standout moment of the evening was a heartfelt Q&A panel with three Stars Mentors,(pictured from left), Cynthia Frazer, Sue Douglas & May Kabay, who have led the Townsville Stars program since it began in Townsville in 2018.
These women are trusted guides and powerful role models who shared not only their wisdom and advice, but also their own life journeys. Our Stars Mentors offered a glimpse into the values and experiences that continue to shape their work with Fist Nations young women today.
The high energy, constant chatter and smiles in the room reinforced the power of the Stars Foundation community.
The message below from a 2022 Stars Graduate to her former Mentor at the end of the night best summed up the evening and the enduring impact of Stars.
“Words can’t describe how grateful I am to pe a part of a wonderful program like Stars…everyone is so inspiring and amazing…I took so much knowledge and inspiration from tonight.”
