As we celebrate NAIDOC Week 2026 and this year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” we are proud to shine a light on one of our inspiring alumnae, Gwen.
At the Harding Miller Education Foundation, we believe every young woman deserves the opportunity to reach her full potential through education. We’re honoured to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars as they pursue their aspirations, and we’re equally proud to celebrate their achievements beyond the scholarship.
In this special video, Gwen shares her personal reflections on the role that culture, community and education have played in shaping who she is today.
She speaks about:
- How her culture and community have influenced her identity and aspirations for the future.
- What education means to her personally, and why it has been such an important part of her journey.
- The message she hopes to share with other young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls as they pursue their own education and future goals.
Gwen’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and potential of First Nations young women. Her reflections highlight the importance of staying connected to culture, believing in yourself and embracing the opportunities that education can provide.
As we mark 50 years of NAIDOC Week, we celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, honour the generations who have come before, and look with optimism to the future. Stories like Gwen’s remind us why investing in young people through education matters – not only for the individuals whose lives are changed, but for the communities they will continue to inspire.
We invite you to watch Gwen’s story and join us in celebrating the voices, achievements and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people this NAIDOC Week.
Watch Gwen’s story below.
Happy NAIDOC Week. ❤️💛🖤
