Over two remarkable days, 30 of our students had the privilege of representing our school at two transformative youth leadership events that celebrated identity, culture, empowerment, and the leaders of tomorrow. These experiences created lifelong memories, sparked new aspirations, and reminded our students that their voices, stories and cultures are powerful assets to the world.

2025 African Australian Student Conference

Theme: Dreaming Out Loud: Our Future in Focus

Ten students from Years 7–9 proudly attended the 2025 African Australian Student Conference at Whitten Oval, joining young leaders from across Victoria. The conference brought African-heritage students together to explore identity, leadership, and ambitious career pathways, while encouraging them to boldly dream with purpose and possibility.

This year’s theme invited students to imagine their futures with confidence and clarity, while staying grounded in who they are and where they come from. The conference’s dual focus offered students:

Broadening Career Aspirations – Students engaged with diverse industries and professionals who encouraged them to explore pathways beyond traditional expectations and set bold, authentic goals.

Inspiration, Identity & Empowerment – Through stories of success, interactive workshops and networking with African Australian professionals, students strengthened their cultural identity, pride, and leadership.

The day was bursting with hands-on learning, including workshops on Artificial Intelligence, an engaging session with Melbourne Victory, and a careers workshop led by Lendlease, one of Australia’s most influential construction companies. A special highlight was touring the Western Bulldogs Trophy Room, sparking excitement and pride.

Our students represented our school with excellence, confidence and enthusiasm. They showed initiative, embraced new learning, and stepped into leadership roles throughout the day. A special congratulations to Oubssa Jr (Junior) (9F) who won a prize, a standout moment for our group!

2025 Multicultural Youth Leadership Conference (MYLC25)

Theme: Reimagine Leadership: Break Barriers

The very next day, 20 students attended the 2025 Multicultural Youth Leadership Conference, a vibrant, youth-led event designed to create a culturally safe space for young people to explore identity, leadership, and the power of storytelling.

MYLC is more than a conference — it is a movement. It empowers multicultural young people to lead the conversation, challenge stereotypes, celebrate identity, and step into leadership with pride. For many, it is the first space where they feel truly seen, heard, valued, and represented.

The day kicked off with electrifying energy as students were called to the stage to represent their schools in a dance-off competition! Aresema (8A) and Hasline (8F) took to the stage with confidence, matching the energy of the room with fantastic moves and school pride.

Throughout the event, students attended youth panels, keynote talks, creative performances and important workshops on topics such as racism, identity, leadership, and the impact of AI on society. The key message echoed throughout the day was:

“Your identity is your superpower.”

Students were encouraged to show inclusive leadership by making others feel welcome, using kind and respectful language, and appreciating the beauty of differences.

Student Reflections: In Their Own Words

Nothing captures the impact better than the voices of our young leaders:

“Today was a very fun experience… I definitely want to go next year. 10/10.”

– Aresema, 8A

“I learnt about inclusivity… I appreciate this opportunity.”

– Arsema, 9A

“I learnt a deeper meaning of racism… although I was shy at first, it was good to interact with people who are more outgoing.”

– Faith, 9D

“I learnt to be more confident with my culture and not be afraid to express myself.” – Hasline, 8F

“The experience was fantastic… I learnt everything that makes me, me.”

– Haswell, 8E

“The presentation was amazing… I really want to go next year. All the students were kind and nice.” – Dunya, 8F

Their reflections speak to growth in confidence, cultural pride, empathy, and leadership.

Looking Ahead

Both conferences were powerful reminders that leadership begins with identity, voice, and courage. We are incredibly proud of our students for the way they represented themselves, their cultures, and our school community.

As a school, we remain committed to nurturing young leaders who are proud of who they are, embrace diversity, break barriers, and uplift others. We look forward to continuing to provide more opportunities that empower student voice, celebrate cultural heritage, and inspire students to dream boldly and lead with heart.

The future is bright and our students are already shaping it.

Jacob Bul Dhieu

African Community Liaison Officer

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