Our second annual Leadership Summit was held recently with 14 excited new scholars and their mentors arriving in Sydney – many flying in especially from interstate for the two-day national event. For most of the students it was the first time they’d been on a plane or stayed overnight in a hotel. An action-packed two days included a leadership workshop hosted by Ernst & Young and facilitated by Craig Griffin, a sumptuous dinner provided by Commonwealth Bank and a creative session at the MCA the next day. The summit is a key component of the scholarship program, bringing new scholars and their mentors together as a group – and is a strong reminder of the importance of networking and mentoring.

We were delighted that all of our scholarship mentors and many members of our Board & Council were able attend the event –  including Navitas General Manager and ABCN Chair, Helen Zimmerman, who is also a mentor to Badiaa from Bankstown Girls. Microsoft CEO, Pip Marlow also joined us for dinner – a highlight for Jordan, our Brian Glasgow Microsoft scholarship recipient, who aspires to a career in IT and was thrilled to sit next to her and share his hopes and dreams for the future.

There are now 26 exceptional students benefitting from ABCN scholarships. The financial assistance and mentoring support previously out of reach for these students, is already impacting positively on their future – with a flow-on affect to their family, school and wider community. Without ABCN’s help, many of these incredible students would not have the opportunity or means to successfully complete school and embark on tertiary education. Nor would they have access to important networks and events such as this.

‘With the money I received, I was able to buy myself a desk, a chair and a light. I no longer have to sit on my bed to work and I’m excited to do my assignments’, said one scholar, Claire, in her dinner address.

ABCN’s scholarship program and the Leadership Summit are only possible with the contributions we receive from generous donors. With our 10-year anniversary just around the corner, please consider a donation – any amount makes a big difference in creating opportunities for disadvantaged students. Our goal is to grow the number of scholarships awarded each year to ensure all outstanding Australian students can reach their potential. To contribute, just click here.