Fred Hollows Foundation recognises Top End student

Jorja Zelley’s passion to help others has been awarded by the Fred Hollows Foundation. Read why the Katherine-raised student was recognised.

A year 6 Territory student has received a top honour from the Fred Hollows Foundation for her volunteer work.

On Monday, Jorja Zelley, from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, was announced as NT Junior Ambassador to the Foundation after being nominated for the Humanity Award – given for demonstrating practical care and kindness to others.

Jorja learned she was the NT Junior Ambassador after her school livestreamed the ceremony which was held in Sydney.

A statement from the Fred Hollows Foundation described Jorja as “extremely passionate” for First Nations equity.

“Having grown up in Katherine while her parents trained in remote Aboriginal communities, Jorja is extremely passionate about equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples,” the statement read.

“She has volunteered for several organisations, including aged care facilities and is always happy to lend a hand.”

Jorja said she “couldn’t believe” she had won the top gong.

“Firstly, I was so shocked to find out I was nominated but then to win, I couldn’t believe it,” she told the NT News.

“I think this award recognises people who show kindness and compassion to others – and I feel really proud.”

And how will Jorja celebrate? With family, friends and cake.

“(I will) spend tonight with my family and friends – going out for dinner, and share a cake with my school friends when my award arrives in the post.”

As a Junior Ambassador, Jorja receives $5000, gifted by the award’s charity partner Specsavers, to be donated to the foundation’s work to end avoidable blindness around the world.