NSW Aboriginal Affairs Minister Leslie Williams says it’s a new award, which recognises young people who demonstrate leadership within their school and local community.
“These students are already making outstanding contributions in their communities and schools and this forum will give them an opportunity to meet with Aboriginal leaders in the world of entertainment, law, business and sport,” she said.
It's a really big opportunity, I'm so proud of myself to actually be able to be nominated, let alone actually get the award.
One of the winners, Jaylee Dunn, from Cowra High School told NITV News that as an Indigenous student it's really important to get involved in community events.
"It's a really big opportunity, I'm so proud of myself to actually be able to be nominated, let alone actually get the award."
The leaders at the forum include CEO of the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence Kirstie Parker, former Rugby League player George Rose and The Voice Kids singer Mi-Kaisha Masella.
The day included a leadership panel discussion, a tour of Parliament House and a tour of the Aboriginal artefact display at the Australian Museum.
Aboriginal student of the year awards
“It's an opportunity to say well done to the children, but also give them an opportunity to share their stories, listen to other stories, meet other students and have a look at parliament house," Mrs Williams said.
Leadership speed dating was also on the agenda. Alas, not the usual kind. This particular activity enabled each child, a one on one interaction with a prominent Indigenous figure, to discuss the importance of being a leader, representing the Aboriginal community and other topical issues for five to ten minutes at a time. When time is up, rotate to the next person and do it all over again.
“It's an opportunity to say well done to the children, but also give them an opportunity to share their stories, listen to other stories, meet other students and have a look at parliament house," Mrs Williams said.
Aboriginal student of the year awards
The Aboriginal Student of the Year title was awarded to 70 students in different electorates throughout NSW. The group attending the forum was the most outstanding from the larger group.
"I'm really excited about the process that's happened, we had over 70 nominations and now here, we get to meet some of those fantastic Aboriginal students," Mrs Williams said.
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I'm really excited about the process that's happened, we had over 70 nominations and now here, we get to meet some of those fantastic Aboriginal students."
