While still a teenager, Alkira Blair-Bain is already being recognised for her leadership at her school and throughout her local community.

Alkira, a young Gamilaroi woman in year nine at Glen Innes High School, located in northern New South Wales, won the inaugural “Aboriginal Student of the Year” award for her leadership role at her school and in her local community.

In addition to winning the award Alkira also had the opportunity to visit New South Wales Parliament House in Sydney where she received an insight into how the state’s political system operates.

“I was very excited and grateful for the opportunity and had the privilege to meet former New South Wales Premier Mike Baird and Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall,” Alkira said.

“I also attended Question Time at Parliament House which I found very interesting.” 

Another activity of the trip was to participate in a session called Leadership Speed Dating.

“The session involved our group meeting with Indigenous leaders to listen to their stories and advice on how they achieved their goals and to discuss what we want to do in the future,” Alkira said.

“I haven’t made up my mind on what I would like to do when I leave school, although I am interested in becoming either a teacher or a musician.”

The support that Alkira has received from her family and her school has been positive.

“The support and encouragement I have received from my family and teachers has been a great help, and knowing that they are proud of me and my achievements gives me the motivation to continue.”

“I am very passionate about culture and I hope that in some way I can inspire other Aboriginal young people to learn about the importance of Aboriginal culture and heritage,” Alkira said.