General News
1 June, 2022
Not-for-profit supports AMBITIOUS INDIGENOUS STUDENTS
BAMAGA Enterprises Ltd (BEL) has provided five TAFE scholarships for FNQ students beginning a new step in their career journeys in 2022, assisting them with course fees and study supplies.
BEL Chairperson Robert Poipoi said that through BEL’s Socio Support Policy, the educational scholarships are some of the most rewarding ways for BEL to help relieve financial hardship in the community.
“These students are an inspiration for the community and have shown a passion for furthering their skills with the plan to bring new knowledge back with them to Bamaga,” Mr Poipoi said.
Recipient of one of the scholarships and employee at the local NPA Family and Community Services (NPAFCS), Sajida Nona, is enrolled to undertake a Certificate IV in Community Services at TAFE Queensland Cairns Campus.
BEL has provided $1000 towards the course fee and the purchase of a new laptop.
Ms Nona said her studies would assist in her role as Community Engagement and Stakeholder Coordinator.
“It’s hard to put into words, but I’m just very grateful for the support from BEL and the work they do, especially for locals,” she said.
“It’s a huge help, especially as I am the only one in my family that’s working right now, so I will be able to complete the course online.”
Another NPAFCS employee Joyce Soki will be furthering her professional and personal development through a Diploma in Community Services – Online Course at Kirana College.
Ms Soki is currently a Support Worker, and she will be receiving $1,500 from BEL for her studies.
“I want to thank BEL from the bottom of my heart for this sponsorship. It will go a long way in helping me help my community,” she said.
Ms Soki said her 12-month online diploma would assist her in pursuing a management or leadership role where she can train and mentor staff.
Bamaga resident Romina Nona has enrolled in the Undergraduate Certificate in Community Support (Distance Education) at University of Tasmania.
BEL has provided Ms Nona with a $1,500 scholarship to cover her course fees and educational supplies.
After completing the 18-month certificate course, Romina said she plans to complete a Diploma in Counselling.
“Through counselling, I’d like to help my community’s long-term future in reducing alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence and making my community a safer place,” Ms Newman said.
Two aspiring performers are included in the batch of TAFE scholarships.
Paul Williams said he feels proud to have received his scholarship to study Certificate IV in Performing Arts at Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts (ACPA).
Mr Williams’ $1500 scholarship from BEL will assist with accommodation costs and fees for the 12-month course in Brisbane.
“My dream job is to work in the movies as an actor or a film producer in Indigenous movies,” he said.
“I’m both excited and nervous for the year ahead. I’ll be missing home a bit, too, but I know I’ve got to keep my head up and stay committed.”
Shekinah Newman said she is excited to start the same course at ACPA with her cousin Paul Williams.
The $1,500 scholarship funds will help with Ms Newman’s tuition, accommodation and educational supplies.
“Dancing means a lot to me. It’s a part of our culture. My whole family dances, but I picked up my passion from watching my elder brother and cousins,” she said.
Ms Newman hopes to further her dance training after the 12-month course and pursue a career path in the performing arts.
“I plan to one day return to the Northern Peninsula Area to teach young people in the community,” she said.
“My dream is to open a dance school in Bamaga in memory of my cousin who passed away a few years ago.
“She taught me, and a few people in our area and I want to continue her legacy.”
