Sporting superstars Justin Hodges and Beryl Friday are inspiring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls at Flagstone to kick academic goals for their future, igniting their love of learning through the Beyond the Broncos Girls Academy.
Linking cultural identity with academic achievement, 17 students are enrolled in this years’ program at Flagstone State Community College, an initiative of the Brisbane Broncos to inspire and assist with educational opportunities for Indigenous girls.
Justin and Beryl got the ball rolling for Term 2 of the Girls Academy, inspiring students to value education and connect to culture.
Flagstone officially joined the Girls Academy program in Term 4 2021 and has already seen an increase in student attendance.
“It’s been rewarding to see that in a few months, these young women are reaping the benefits of the Broncos Girls Academy and placing importance on their education. Through the program, many of these girls are building their confidence and a sense of pride in their culture,” said Justin Hodges.
“I wouldn’t have made it to where I am today without setting goals for myself and having the drive and determination to achieve those goals.
“The Broncos Girls Academy is an exceptional program for our young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, providing them with the skills and leadership to forge a successful path for their future.”
The Beyond the Broncos Girls Academy, which aims to improve school attendance, increase confidence, and foster leadership, is supported by the Federal Government, State Government, and major community partner NRMA Insurance.
More than 1,700 young Indigenous girls are enrolled in this years’ program across Queensland and northern NSW. The Academy mentors and supports girls in Year 7-12 and into young adulthood to help these young leaders succeed.
Christine Halliwell, General Manager of Community & Government Programs at the Brisbane
Broncos, said Academy ambassadors Justin and Beryl were inspiring the next generation to take a positive step towards their future careers.
“The Academy aims to give Flagstone students the best possible start in life. We know that keeping these young girls in school and completing Year 12 provides crucial pathways to prosperity,” said Ms Halliwell.
“An important part of the program is embedding pride in their culture and having role models like Justin and Beryl that they can look up to and inspire them to take positive steps towards their future.”
Beyond the Broncos Girls Academy has supported more than 4,000 students since it was established in 2016, recognising the vital role that young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women play in influencing the next generation.