Change Makers

At Brigidine College, our students bring energy and purpose not only to their studies but also to their passions beyond our grounds, challenging themselves and inspiring others to see new possibilities. Starting this term, we’ll highlight these remarkable individuals—our ‘Change Makers’—in each newsletter, showcasing the students and alumni whose dedication is shaping the world around them. If you know a student or former Brigidine student making a difference, please reach out and let us celebrate their achievements together.

Music has always played a significant role in my life not only shaping me to become a unique individual but also providing me with a sense of purpose and direction. 

While I explored various instruments in my early years, I discovered my passion for playing the piano at the age of 6. I was captivated and fascinated with the beauty and magic those black and white keys possess. 

Since then, piano has not only been a means for me to express myself but also connected me to a broader community through my active participation in diverse musical opportunities. Embracing myself to be a member of various orchestras and ensembles in the college has further allowed me to showcase and develop my musicality, truly inspiring me to pursue music and undertake my piano diploma exam in my senior year. 

I also look forward to joining the university orchestras to further immerse myself in the world of music as the applause from the audience after each performance fills me with an overwhelming sense of fulfilment, boosting my confidence each time. In those moments, I found myself able to set aside my usual stage fright and relish that moment, knowing that it would serve as my motivation for continuous improvements in the future.

Chloe Wong

Year 11

When I was 14 years old I discovered the gym, falling in love instantly, I slowly but surely learnt my way around the weights section. What started as a curiosity quickly turned into a passion and by the time I was 16 years old I had started training for powerlifting and qualified for Under18 Powerlifting Nationals. 

In early 2024 I became the National Champion qualifying for the IPF Junior World Championships in September in Malta. 

Now, as I navigate my way through Year 11 and 12, I find myself ranked 6th in the world, holding 3 National records and 2 Oceania records. 

If there is one thing I have learnt throughout all of my training is the remarkable power of the mind. Discipline and mental resilience fuel my progress, allowing me to turn failures and challenges into opportunities for growth. 

The first thing that comes to mind whenever I explain this idea is The LEGO Movie. Now hear me out, Emmet, the main character, begins the movie comparing himself to the ‘master builders’ but later learns to unlock the full potential of his mind by focusing on himself and his own journey. 

I now take this newfound mental power and discipline for my future in powerlifting but also my future endeavours in my adult life. 

Powerlifting has given me an unbreakable sense of community, meeting people from around the country and the globe who share the same goals and determination as myself. 

Being given the opportunity to represent my country is an experience I will cherish forever and be eternally proud of. 

It's not the competition or the records that motivates me, it's being given the chance to improve myself every single day, inside and outside of the gym.

Emma Hammann

Year 11