2024 AAYIW Awardee:

Jasmin Briggs is a proud young Gamiliroi woman and is held in high esteem by both the staff and students of Warilada High School, reflected in her election as the 2024 School Captain. She aspires to becoming a medical doctor and has focused upon achieving high academic results in her Higher School Certificate.

She has demonstrated her commitment to the health care sector by completing a TAFE Certificate III in Health Care Services, concurrently with her HSC studies but ensuring that her trainee work hours are completed at weekends, to maximise her time in the classroom at school.

Jasmin is a respected role model and leader both within her school and the wider community. She explains her cultural heritage “… provides a sense of belonging and community, connecting with others who share similar backgrounds and values …. in essence my Gamiliroi heritage is a vital part of who I am … embracing my Gamiliroi roots enables me to honour my ancestors and their enduring legacy, preserving traditions, languages and stories that might otherwise be lost.” Jasmin cites the high rates of domestic violence as a significant issue impacting the lives of young Indigenous women.

In her application she outlined a number of informed strategies that could address this problem, to be implemented in collaboration with local Indigenous organisations already working on these issues. She concludes that: “By addressing the issue of violence against young Indigenous women with a comprehensive, culturally informed approach, we can help create a safer and more supportive environment that allows not only Indigenous but all young women to thrive and achieve their full potential.”