Indigenous girls encouraged to be the best version of themselves at Stars Foundation awards night

The scholastic achievements of more than 200 Indigenous girls were put on the spotlight at the Stars Foundation end of year celebrations last week. Founded in 2015, the Stars Foundation was established to tackle the gender inequity in funding for mentoring programs which support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The in-base school program aims to support girls in their schooling, home life and break down any barriers preventing them from attending school. Last week’s awards night recognised their persistence and hard work all year. Karratha Senior High School program co-ordinator Jodi Bampton said she hoped to see all the girls in the program graduate Year 12 with a career pathway. “I want more for our Indigenous girls and I want them to be a doctor if they choose, I want them to go to university if they choose,” she said. “I just want them to be the best version of themselves.” Among the award winners were Shyann McMahon-Wailu, 14, and Sky Laing, 13, who won junior star of the year and junior rising star respectively. Ms Laing said attending class and participating every day got her the award. Ms McMahon-Wailu said it meant a lot to be recognised for her efforts.