2021 Graduates

Alyssa is making her mark as the Council Liaison Officer with the Northern Land Council, based on Larrakia Country. In this role she regularly travels to remote communities, coordinating and supporting meetings that help strengthen connection and decision-making across regions.

Her passion for community and leadership has also led her to secure a place in the 2025 Fellowship Program with Culture is Life – a unique opportunity to deepen her knowledge of Indigenous affairs and refine her leadership skills.

Since graduating, Alyssa has thrived across a range of roles that highlight her versatility and commitment:

• 2022 – Covid Care Coordination Unit, NT Health
• 2022–2023 – Casual remote travel with Hoops 4 Health as a Coach/Mentor
• 2022–2024 – Early Learning Educator, Rainbows Early Learning Centre
• 2024–2025 – Community Engagement Officer, Office of Township Leasing, Commonwealth Government.

Reflecting on her Stars journey, Alyssa said the greatest part was the opportunities and the safe space created for young First Nations girls to connect with one another and to feel free to be themselves.

“My fondest memory was getting to finish Year 12 with Jaylene as one of my Mentors, who was my first Mentor along with Iggy back in 2016 at Sanderson Middle School when I first joined Stars at 11 years old,” said Alyssa.

“Stars taught me self-determination and helped me understand we write our own stories and can do whatever we put our minds to. Mentors were willing to help when needed and were always there to support me – whether that looked like giving me a little push, a pep talk or even just a hug whenever I needed it, I was always supported – even after graduation.

I encourage any young First Nations girl considering joining Stars to take advantage of the opportunities provided to you and to get out of your comfort zone. Whether it is joining in on a new sport, cooking, weaving, applying for jobs, getting your license, doing a traineeship, volunteering or making new friends – get out there, network and try new things with the support of other Stars girls as well as your Mentors. You won’t know, if you don’t go!”

Alyssa’s story is one of persistence, growth, and leadership. From her early days with Stars at 11 years old to her current work shaping community engagement and Indigenous affairs, she embodies the power of self-determination and the importance of strong support networks.