Celebrating Indigenous success

The academic success of 21 Indigenous students from across UNSW has been recognised at Nura Gili’s inaugural Awards Night, developed to encourage and inspire students.

Seven high-achieving students received awards for their academic accomplishments, and eight awards went to students who have demonstrated a commitment to their studies while overcoming challenges. Three students received ‘Rising Star’ awards in recognition of their academic efforts.

Three students from the Australian School of Business were presented with the Indigenous Accountants Awards, created and sponsored by the Head of Property Finance at AMP Capital Adrian Williams, as a way to encourage more Indigenous students to enter the profession.

Mr Williams said it was important that Indigenous wisdom and thinking become central to the “fabric and leadership [of] corporate Australia”.

“I believe in a modern world where financial literacy is one of those key pillars needed if any culture is to remain strong. Accounting knowledge is now one of those core skills that can provide strength to individuals, families and communities.”

In his address, Director of Nura Gili Professor Martin Nakata encouraged students to pursue their studies and professions to the highest level.

“This will help build capacity in the communities you come from. There are many avenues in which you can give back to your communities, even when you live and work away from where you come from,” he said.

UNSW has committed to increasing Indigenous enrolments to 500 by 2015. More than 300 Indigenous students are currently enrolled at UNSW - many have been assisted by the pre-programs and pathways offered by Nura Gili. Balnaves Place – Home of Nura Gili, was opened last year and provides a central hub for Indigenous programs on campus, increasing UNSW’s capacity to provide Indigenous student support services and courses and research using state-of-the-art technological facilities with work and study spaces. 

Read the full story on the Nura Gili website and in the latest issue of Nura Gili News.

Media contact: Cassie Chorn, UNSW Media Office, 9385 8107