2020 school captains from Kew, Hawthorn, Canterbury and surrounds share future hopes
They’re often thought of as selfie-taking showoffs — but our next crop of leaders are anything but. We asked Melbourne Year 12 school captains what difference they will make in the world. Here’s what those from Canterbury, Kew, Hawthorn and surrounds said.
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Change is inevitable — but what kind of world do our next generation of young leaders want to live in, and how will they play a role in making it happen?
In our second annual special report on Tomorrow’s Leaders, we asked school captains across the length and breadth of metropolitan Melbourne: “What action will you take to make a difference in your community?”
Captains of 216 schools responded, and the thought provoking and inspiring words of those from our local schools are published here.
A representative group of 26 of these young leaders, featured on the front cover of every local special print edition, gathered with us at State Parliament recently to extrapolate on their thoughts, and meet Premier Dan Andrews, who took the time to offer them some encouraging words to forge their own path as they prepare to take on the world.
One of the most inspiring observations from this gathering was how easily these confident young people networked with each other, despite never having met.
It reminds us great leaders are also great communicators.
MORE:
BAYSIDE, CAULFIELD AND PORT PHILLIP SCHOOL CAPTAINS
FRANKSTON AND GREATER DANDENONG SCHOOL CAPTAINS
LILYDALE, YARRA VALLEY AND MAROONDAH SCHOOL CAPTAINS
CANTERBURY GIRLS’ SECONDARY COLLEGE
Katherine Tsimiklis, 17 and Georgia O’Keeffe, 17
Aesop said: “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Today, one in four Australian youths aged 16-24 suffer from a mental illness.
As a school captain, encouraging everyone to show kindness and support to their peers through all year levels, creates a friendlier environment.
A simple smile can cheer up a student after a difficult day.
These minor acts will complement each other and be amplified through the school and out into the wider community.
Together we can create more positivity, which through time will aid in decreasing mental illnesses and encourage a positive mindset.
— Katherine Tsimiklis
In high school, as we undergo our formative years, mental illness can be a major issue in our day-to-day life.
“One in five young people aged 15-19 meet the criteria for a probable serious mental illness” (Mission Australia), and yet for such a critical issue, it is still stigmatised.
Inadequate education surrounding mental illness can cause symptoms to be misdirected as “feeling down” or stressed, leaving disorders undiagnosed.
To inhibit the continuance of generational stigma, we need to promote discussion and awareness around this topic, and equip students with the necessary tools to identify mental illness, inevitably aiding our generations wellbeing.
— Georgia O’Keeffe
SIENA COLLEGE, CAMBERWELL
Adrienne Duray, 17 and Laura Griss, 17
Mental health issues may affect us directly, or someone close to us.
I believe that wellness of the mind is crucial to one’s happiness, especially in the lives of young women like myself and the other students at our college.
Siena is committed to removing any negative stigma that surrounds mental health issues. I sincerely care for the wellbeing of all students, as well as the wellness of staff at the college. As a leader, I hope to see and create further opportunities to talk openly about this topic for the benefit of all.
— Adrienne Dura
The development of knowledge, skills and experience in STEM fields is critical to enable the next generation of innovators and critical thinkers.
Innovation leads to advances in human health and wellbeing and builds a strong and sustainable Australian economy for future generations.
I am passionate about science and maths and have committed myself to study in these areas hoping that one day my career can influence the way people live their lives, whether that be in healthcare, engineering or biomedical sciences.
— Laura Griss
CAMBERWELL HIGH SCHOOL, CANTERBURY
Navia Naidu, 17 and William Clarke, 17
Leadership is a unique attribute that is defined by oneself.
It only takes one person to make a difference and that is to encourage the younger generation to take charge of their futures.
I hope for the community to come together in times of need and leave our footprint. It is our generation that will lead and it is vital that they are equipped with an abundance of tools and a solid support system to do so.
I hope to inspire and motivate students to participate and recognise that they are not just individuals, but members of a global community.
— Navia Naidu
We live in a very exciting time.
The actions of young people really can make a difference, probably more than ever before. Starting at the local level, young people are driving positive change and making a difference globally.
Whether it be encouraging greater inclusion in our multicultural environment or driving the shift in attitude about saving our environment, huge changes can be accomplished by any individual if they are willing to act and persist.
That is why I am actively involved in my school and wider community. It is important to lead by example to bring about the greatest possible positive change.
— William Clarke
MORE:
MOORABBIN, MORDIALLOC AND CHELSEA SCHOOL CAPTAINS
MORELAND AND MOONEE VALLEY SCHOOL CAPTAINS
MORNINGTON PENINSULA SCHOOL CAPTAINS
NORTHCOTE, PRESTON AND HEIDELBERG SCHOOL CAPTAINS
NORTHERN, SUNBURY AND MACEDON RANGES SCHOOL CAPTAINS
CAMBERWELL GIRLS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, CANTERBURY
Felicia Spiridonos, 17
It is a great honour for myself and my two vice captains, Laurya and Loren, to be school captains in Camberwell Girls Grammar School’s Centenary year.
We hope to leave a legacy in our school’s tight-knit community by taking action. Various initiatives are being considered in relation to our selected theme of “GLOW” which represents: Girl Power, Legacy, Originality and Willpower. Girl Power emphasises the need to empower young women to be brave and to support each other.
As we celebrate our school’s 100th year, Legacy reminds us to learn from the past and envision the future, to make the most of the present.
Originality celebrates diversity and each individual’s unique qualities, encouraging everyone to stay true to themselves.
Finally, Willpower will delve into mindset and perseverance, as everyone is inspired to give it their all until the very end.
Personally, I believe we can all make a difference and I see this role as an opportunity to listen and include others while leading with compassion and integrity. In 2020, the CGGS community will discover what makes us GLOW and the impact this can have for generations to come.
GENAZZANO FCJ COLLEGE, KEW
Lola Crivelli, 17 and Ruby Atkin, 17
Being leaders in our college community gives us the opportunity to spread our vision and this year’s theme “Be my sister”.
Our mission behind this theme is to challenge everyone in the Genazzano community to be inclusive, show kindness and grow friendships so we all feel safe, valued and empowered to achieve our best with courage and confidence.
Girls are often accustomed to the negative self-talk that occurs, along the lines of “I’m not pretty” or “I’m not smart”. I
n our mission to make a difference, we want to reverse this attitude among young girls and help them be more aware of the things they can work on but also to celebrate what makes them unique.
This year we endeavour to create a school environment where every girl is able to be the best version of themselves, while motivating their peers to achieve their full potential.
Our vision is to inspire all students to be like sisters — encouraging and cheerful.
We are all a part of one family, and by supporting each other and propping each other up, we can create a stronger, united unit. After all, a community filled with unity and support brings joy to all.
SCOTCH COLLEGE, HAWTHORN
William Dixon, 18
While fundraising is often the initial thought when considering how to make a difference in one’s community, this can often be at the expense of raising awareness.
Yes, financial aid can support change and should be encouraged, however it is the cross pollination and exchange of ideas that comes with awareness that is so much more powerful. I believe that schools, being places of education, have a powerful role in addressing social issues as well as breaking down stigmas that directly affect our society.
This is of particular importance as the youth of today begins to grow older, colouring the societal beliefs of tomorrow with fresh new ideas and perspectives.
At Scotch in 2020, through better educating the school community in how they can both look after themselves and those around them, as well as deconstructing potentially destructive misconceptions around mental health, we hope to create an environment both within the school, and hopefully by extension within our society, where it is seen as “Not Weak to Speak”.
MORE:
WHITEHORSE AND MANNINGHAM SCHOOL CAPTAINS
WHITTLESEA AND DIAMOND VALLEY SCHOOL CAPTAINS
KEW HIGH SCHOOL, EAST KEW
Anna Williams, 18 and Jadyn Lam, 17
As a generation that advocates for change and equality, we must continue to remind ourselves and others that all our actions, no matter how big or small, have an impact.
Alongside juggling the demands of Year 12, it goes unspoken that we wish to make a valuable contribution to the world around us.
As leaders we want our decisions and actions to have positive, long lasting effects within both our school and wider community.
We hope to see more celebration and recognition of indigenous Australians and their culture.
We encourage climate action, by acknowledging both small and large scale change.
We are experiencing first-hand the impacts of a warming climate and we believe that any difference we can make within our community to become more climate conscious is better than none at all.
We strive to create a more inclusive environment, celebrating everyone’s differences, and we hope to connect people of all cultures, religions and sexualities.
As the leaders of this generation, we need to understand the impact our actions have on a global scale and we must aspire to create positive change that future generations can all enjoy.
XAVIER COLLEGE, KEW
Ben Wright-Smith, 17
I’m proud to be captain of Xavier College.
During my schooling here at Xavier, I’ve noticed an increased effort into raising awareness surrounding mental health in youth.
Days dedicated towards mental health such as “R U OK’ Day” and various talks throughout the year have become a common occurrence with a positive effect.
At first, I was perplexed as to why there was such a need for these talks and days, but as I’ve matured I realise the significance and relevance.
Now, I wonder why mental health is not thrust further into the spotlight?
Why do so many young people bury themselves under a growing mountain of stress, anxiety and feelings of hopelessness?
Unfortunately, the answer is not simple. Rather, it is through raising awareness and educating youth about options for help that we may be able to assist.
It is vital that we strive to limit the consequences on those affected and actively try to fight this constant battle.
This year, my leadership team will put mental health at the forefront of every single mind, letting those affected know that there is support, love and a place for them — anywhere they go.
RUYTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL, KEW
Bella Eames, 17 and Mia Waters, 17
In light of the recent bushfires that have devastated the nation, our leadership team has found inspiration in the population coming together to support those who have suffered the most during this turbulent summer.
It is this sense of community that resonates with us and is something that, as a group, we wanted to foster in our own school community going forward.
As the leaders of our school in 2020 we will expand on opportunities for interaction between the senior and junior schools, reinforcing the engaged community that is special about Ruyton. One such opportunity is a whole school initiative, directed by students, where we involve all members of the community in a fundraising event for the bushfire cause. Just like the Australian population, we will unite as one.
By opening our event up to parents, teachers and students from Early Learning to Year 12, we hope to empower the community and make them feel as though they are truly a part of something meaningful and impressive.
As leaders instilling an “older sister” type mentorship for the younger girls, we will gain their creative input and fresh perspective uniting together to make a difference in our community.
ALIA COLLEGE, HAWTHORN EAST
Jonathan Hibberd, 17
In a small community like at my school, being a leader means not only are you someone who everyone knows, you are also someone who represents the school.
Leadership positions can sometimes be misleading and trivial.
In a school, each and every person should be a motivator for change, be respectful and contribute to the overall community.
When students have the opportunity to be in a position as a leader, some aren’t given the power to make change or to speak about the opinions they truly believe in.
For those who are leaders in the community – whether you are put into a position of official leadership or you are someone who is under the radar – everyone is in the position to do the right thing, and as young people you should support what you believe in.
KOROWA ANGLICAN GIRLS’ SCHOOL, GLEN IRIS
Sophie Carne, 17 and Kelly Chen, 17
In a world where strength is admired, it is easy to forget that confidence is built on foundations of courage that requires something less visible – vulnerability.
My overarching goal is to celebrate courage and build connections.
The leadership team plans to increase recognition of girls who find the courage to participate in the multitude of extra-curricular and leadership opportunities on offer, as well focus on improving our school’s sustainability.
I will be encouraging all girls to explore opportunities to serve their community and to recognise that the greatest rewards come from taking a chance.
— Sophie Carne
As technology has shortened the distance among nations in the past decades, cultural diversity has become an important part of the world we live in, especially in a country like Australia. Korowa is known and proud of being a diverse community with students from various backgrounds.
I believe that the best way to unite a community is to understand and acknowledge each other’s values that often are influenced by cultural backgrounds.
As a unique member of the international student community, in 2020 I plan to encourage students with different backgrounds to share the stories of their backgrounds and personal family traditions.
— Kelly Chen
SACRÉ CŒUR, GLEN IRIS
Ava Bennett, 18 and Alice Straford, 17
Integrity, positivity and inclusiveness.
Three qualities embodied by many of the great world leaders who we have grown up admiring. Although many of the values of leaders have sustained throughout time, we view leadership as a rapidly evolving concept.
Entering into formal positions of leadership in 2020, we understand the need to take a progressive and modern approach to leadership.
Venturing into a new decade, our generation is known for celebrating differences, embracing change and becoming aware of the effects of our actions.
If we consider these values and attributes in detail, as a generation we are becoming more conscious of our environmental footprint, while becoming more inclusive and accepting towards all. We see it as our role to harness our access to technology to solve some of the greatest challenges we face today.
The modern progression of leadership has accentuated the importance of taking action. That great leaders don’t tell you what to do: they show you.
Through seemingly insignificant actions such as raising awareness on emerging issues and larger scale actions such as fundraisers and multilateral projects, we hope to empower our generation to shape the world.
FINTONA GIRLS’ SCHOOL, BALWYN
Hannah Jacobs, 17 and Nicole Phanivong, 17
As the school consuls of Fintona Girls’ School, we would love to have everyone feel accepted at our school and be celebrated for their differences.
In order to create a supportive environment for all students, we are introducing many different school events that hope to raise awareness of issues people face in our community.
These include an anti-bullying day, a mental health awareness week and a celebration of the Wear it Purple organisation and day that supports LGBTQIA+ youth.
We hope that these days not only benefit Fintona students who can identify with these issues, but also the wider community.
We hope that the positive attitude adopted by the Fintona students as well as the knowledge they learn will allow our students to be more considerate and understanding to others in our community. Fintona also supports a range of charities which we will endorse this year as leaders.
These encourage generosity in our students and gratitude for the life they live, but also teach them to empathise with those who are less fortunate.
We hope that by being approachable and open-minded school captains, we can leave a positive influence on fellow students and encourage them to be resilient and accepting to the communities around them.
BALWYN HIGH SCHOOL, NORTH BALWYN
Ned Lindenmayer, 17 and Julia Goh, 17
In an age of ever-increasing isolation from community, driven by greater usage of social media rather than interpersonal connection, it takes an active effort by leaders to unite ideas of camaraderie with the unique elements of their respective environments.
Our generation’s obsession with internet performance as a way of expressing leaders are then tasked with working within our school communities to bring out the individual qualities of each person.
Defining the high school experience is the consolidation of one’s identity – what we stand for, fall for, and the passions that ultimately ground our sense of belonging.
Thus, to make a difference in our community means to synthesise a sense of values and praxis with the specific character of those we represent, inspiring them to take initiative themselves. We view high school as more than an academic institution; it is where we have matured into young adults with strong values that ultimately have been cultivated by our sense of place in this world.
The actions we take as leaders should inspire others in our community to lead in their own rite and in their own unique ways.
CAREY BAPTIST GRAMMAR SCHOOL, KEW
Jasmine Millar, 17 and Ed Simpson, 17
As an aspiring international human rights lawyer, I hope to use my school captain
position to encourage, model and inspire my fellow students and others in the
community to take action against injustice and inequality in its many forms – be it
homelessness, racism, sexism, violence against women, homophobia, bullying or
other social issues.
Through education, information and action, I hope that we can
not only work towards changing the existing injustices in our world, but also ensure
that future generations are raised with beliefs, values and behaviours that bring
about equality for everyone.
— Jasmine Millar
Technology has created a new world; one that runs in parallel to the real world. In
this world, we are constantly looking down at our devices with AirPods in, oblivious
to the needs of those around us.
We are certainly more “connected” than ever before,
but loneliness is on the rise.
Why not try turning off your phone and engaging with the real world. Give a kind
smile to someone you walk past, or say “Good morning” to a stranger. By enhancing
real connectivity between people, we can build better relationships and support
networks.
And you never know what impact a small and random act of kindness can
have on another’s mental health.
— Ed Simpson
METHODIST LADIES’ COLLEGE, KEW
Alice Caldwell, 17
I have been privileged enough to be chosen as the leader of my school. This year, through my position, I am going to make a difference in my community through two approaches: leading by example and inspiring global engagement.
Leadership is about so much more than being able to tell people what to do; a good leader will emanate the qualities that they wish to see mirrored in the community around them, thereby showing people the way as opposed to telling them.
It is my desire to embody the qualities that I wish to see more of in the world: humility, compassion, community spirit and warmth. By going forth with these virtues at the helm of everything I do, I hope to be able to enact positive change around me and encourage others to do so as well.
Something that the student leadership team identified to enhance within our community was global-mindedness, a trait of ever-increasing importance in our globalised, inextricably intertwined world.
Bearing this in mind, we chose “2020 Vision” as our leadership theme.
This theme is about looking to the future, identifying the challenges we face as a global community and having the ambition, courage and vision to innovate solutions.
STRATHCONA GIRLS GRAMMAR, CANTERBURY
Kara McKenzie, 17
Recently the world has seen the huge ripple effect that young people can create to improve locally-based issues to even worldwide problems.
Mentoring people (whether older or younger) in specific tools to navigate the world of social media and perfection is important in 2020.
A main theme for Strathcona this year is to embody the word “authentic”.
With the rise in social media being the hub for interaction, first impressions and connection between people, many teenagers, myself included, have lost the perspective to ignore the perfection and superficiality that sweeps across our screens.
It is imperative that people’s relationships with social media become more positive and instead of inhibiting a person’s authenticity and causing them to question their real and genuine self. I aim to show all girls at school, that while we are all faced with perfection in the media, it is an unattainable goal and instead of concealing flaws, we should embrace them.
The opportunity to help people in small locally-based ways is often overlooked, but it should be recognised within communities and schools more.
At Strathcona this year, we are working to further foster the development of skills to combat unreal ideals and to celebrate the individual, as well as, group authenticity.
CAMBERWELL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, CANTERBURY
Geoffrey Gong, 17 and Philip Alex, 17
As challenged by the iconic Mahatma Gandhi, we believe it is more important than ever “to be the change that you want to see in the world”.
Nowadays, for young people the most accessible opportunity for an impact to be made is through school.
Our school is a body of passionate, bright and inspirational voices that want to contribute to the change we want to see. This change can extend to two immediate levels in terms of our internal school community and the local area.
On a school level, a major issue that our students are eager to tackle is climate action. Whether it be through educating our peers on how to dispose of their waste appropriately, or removing single use tomato sauce packets from our canteen, we are continually looking for ways to make our school community more sustainable.
Our students are also continually encouraged to engage with, and give back to, the local community.
By increasing opportunities to serve and interact, whether through organising a clean up or visiting the elderly in aged care facilities, our students are motivated to bridge the gap between school and the local area.
The essential part is reminding our peers that they have the potential and tools to make a difference.
SWINBURNE SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGE, HAWTHORN EAST
Declan Saunders, 18 and Anna Sexton, 17
As young people, we can often feel incapable of creating true change in our community, especially as individuals.
I believe that the best way to create a difference in our community is to use leadership to bring people together in the fight for a shared cause.
As a leader I see it as my duty to not only fight for a cause on my own, but also with the power of the people. It is in this way that I see a path to true change in the community.
— Declan Saunders
The world we are living in can seem bleak. Counter-productive actions taken by our leaders can discourage change.
The impact I believe my generation can have is huge.
With movements like the School Strike 4 Climate we are showing we are leaders of tomorrow, we can improve on the work in progress that is our planet and allow a future for generations to come.
A quote I try to follow is by Nelson Henderson: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
— Anna Sexton