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Stars Foundation recently marked its 10th Anniversary, gathering students, Alumnae, and community members across 74 programs nationwide to celebrate a decade of impact.

At anniversary events, Stars Founder and CEO, Andrea acknowledged all the people who have contributed to Stars in significant ways over the last decade as together this pioneering group has built a strong and proud legacy in Stars.

While many of the original team members have moved to other priorities and commitments, Andrea especially honoured and thanked seven original staff members for their courage and commitment in helping establish the organisation.

The founding team charted the Stars journey from its earliest days, stepping into multiple program roles over the past decade. Original members from 2015 include Jaylene Bonson-Constantine, Kylie Duggan, Samantha Rioli, and Iggy Vallejo. In 2016, Jordan Ah Sam, Tamara Rosas, and Amanda Walker joined the team – each playing a critical role in shaping Stars’ growth and success. The founding team are pictured above at official proceedings at NT Government House from left to right: Iggy, Amanda, Sam, Andrea, Kylie, Jordan and Tamara (Jaylene is absent).

Stars Founder and CEO, Andrea Goddard, noted that the Stars team is key to improving education, health and employment outcomes for First Nations girls and young women.

“I am forever grateful to our founding team who believed in Stars’ vision to mentor and empower First Nations girls and young women to live their best lives, and especially to the seven superstars who are still working with us today,” said Andrea Goddard.

“I’m also thankful to our 250-strong team today ranging from brilliant Mentors and Program Coordinators who nurture and empower our students day in and day out, to our outstanding support team in operations, transitions, partnerships, communications, finance, IT and HR – as each individual is part of the growing success of Stars.”

“Our 10th Anniversary is a celebration of every person who has helped Stars improve opportunities for First Nations young women across Australia in our programs.”

Jaylene reflects on 10 years with Stars

Joining Stars in 2015, Jaylene Bonson-Constantine has taken on roles including Program Coordinator at Sanderson Middle School and Haileybury Rendall School, , Transitions Coordinator, and Operations Administrator. Pictured above from left to right is Jordan, Jaylene and Kylie.

Jaylene chooses to work with Stars as she is inspired by the positive impact mentoring makes on a students’ education, and on their confidence, identity and future opportunities.

“It’s a truly rewarding job to join the young ladies we work with on their journeys. When I think back to when Stars started with a few staff and two schools in the NT to now, it shows the strength of the program and the dedication of the staff,” said Jaylene.

“My fondest memories of Stars is the relationships and connections I’ve built with the girls I’ve mentored over the last 10 years. What means the most is when I see these young women outside of work, and we’re with our families or even playing sport against each other – the pride and respect in those moments is very special. It shows the bonds we create go far beyond the program.

“While working with Stars, I’ve learned that showing up, listening, respecting and supporting the young ladies we work with, can have a such a positive impact on their lives, and more than we can ever know. I also enjoy celebrating their successes, whether big or small. I feel proud that Stars students and Alumnae are our future – strong, educated, powerful women who can lead the world and be role models for the younger generations.”

Iggy’s reflections on a decade with Stars

Iggy Vallejo (pictured above), who began as Program Coordinator at Sanderson Middle School in 2015 and became Regional Manager for Darwin schools in 2020, described Stars as more than just a workplace.

“This work isn’t just a job, it’s a purpose. Every day I see the difference we make in creating opportunities, building confidence, and supporting students to thrive. That sense of being part of something bigger than myself is what has led me to work with Stars for the last 10 years,” said Iggy.

“The growth of Stars is inspiring and humbling. Watching Stars grow from such a small beginning into a national movement shows what’s possible when there’s a strong vision and unwavering commitment. For me, it’s proof that empowering young women has a ripple effect across families, communities, and generations.

“My fondest memories are always connected to graduations. Standing beside our Year 12 students as they walk across the stage, knowing the barriers they’ve overcome, and seeing the pride on their faces – and the faces of their family never gets old. Those moments are unforgettable.

“I recently witnessed a student who came to Stars shy, disengaged, and unsure of her future. With consistent support, mentoring, and encouragement, she grew into a confident leader, completed Year 12, and is now studying at university. Seeing her journey from doubt to determination reminds me why we do this work.

“My greatest learning has been the importance of relationships and trust. True change happens when we walk alongside students, listen to them, and believe in their potential – even when they doubt themselves. It’s reinforced for me that consistency, compassion, and high expectations go hand in hand.

“Stars is transformative – not only for students, but for their families and communities. This program isn’t about charity; it’s about empowerment, opportunity, and creating strong pathways so young women can succeed on their own terms.

“I feel privileged to have been part of Stars for 10 years. It has been an incredible journey of growth – for the program, for the students, and for me personally. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and am excited for the next chapter.”

Amanda reflects on her journey with Stars

Amanda Walker-Hill (second from left above) joined Stars in 2016 as a Program Mentor for Casuarina Senior College in Darwin, before moving to Sanderson Middle School. She was then promoted to Program Coordinator at Moulden Park Primary School followed by Nightcliff Middle School and more recently at Haileybury Rendall School.

Amanda said becoming a Program Coordinator and being trusted to open and run Stars’ first primary school program were major career highlights. Her fondest Stars memory is working alongside former 2016 Graduates as Stars colleagues.

“When I was in school, there were no programs like Stars available for young girls to access, only Clontarf for the boys. In my final year of schooling, that was the most challenging years struggling with personal and academic issues and I didn’t have any support at school. Being able to provide support to these young ladies in a way that I didn’t get to receive is what has inspired me to stay with Stars,” said Amanda.

“It’s an amazing achievement for the Foundation to be celebrating 10 years. To me, it’s not just about the growing numbers, it’s about the real impact. Thousands of young Indigenous girls now have more chances, support, and confidence to chase their goals. It really shows what can happen when we back people, culture, and education. It’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and what girls can achieve when they lift each other up.

“The photo below is one of my favourites because in our roles we put so much love, emotion, effort, patience and resilience into showing up for our girls every day. As much as we encourage independence, sometimes it’s okay to have someone help piggyback you through the hard times.

“I only wish everyone knew about the relationships that we create with our students and their families and get to see first-hand how amazing our girls truly are!”