CGS ALUMNI NEWS

In Conversation With Our Alumni

In the spirit of our first CGS Giving Day, organised by the CGS Foundation on 15 June 2023, this edition spotlights Alumni who were part of the CGS scholarship programme which is a key ongoing focus of the CGS Foundation. We talk about what their scholarships gave them and how it enriched their educational journey.

TALEAH GREENE (CGS 2022)

Can you share a bit about your journey as an Indigenous scholar during your time at CGS?

I joined CGS in Year 11 as a boarder, this was a big change for me and I was out of my comfort zone. I enjoyed my time at CGS but did have a bit of a rocky journey at times, as I struggled with being away from home and dealing with the Year 11 workload. I was provided so many opportunities and experiences from Indigenous aspects, education and sport. I would advocate for any Indigenous student to apply to the CGS Indigenous scholarship programme.

What did the scholarship mean for you ? How has it helped or changed your outlook ?

Prior to coming to CGS, I had no ambitions to complete school or to attend university. But after being awarded this Indigenous scholarship, I decided to take this chance and see where it could lead me. I ended up changing my outlook on university and am now attending UC.

You recently attended the ‘Celebration of Giving’ CGS Foundation event, an event honouring our donors, supporters, and scholars. What are your thoughts on the School’s efforts toward growing scholarship opportunities for students now and in the future?

This scholarship is an amazing opportunity, and it is great to see the school striving to be able to provide this experience to many more Indigenous students within the future.

What has led you to your current role as an Indigenous student administrator at CGS?

After graduating from Canberra Grammar School last year, the School offered me a job which involves assisting Indigenous students with their needs, from taking them to their medical appointments, helping with administrative work to being a person they can come and chat to when needed. With this role I work heavily with all faculty areas and the heads of the School, to make sure the Indigenous student’s best interest is in mind. I also work toward improving the Schools understanding of both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

In your role, what are some of the specific initiatives or programmes you have been involved in to support Indigenous students within the school?

Our Indigenous Scholars took part in the ‘Our Yarning’ workshop. This programme aims to create a ‘library for all’, which includes books written by First Nations people allowing them to be able express and teach their own culture. Throughout this programme the students were taught how to write books for children from learners to upper primary and were given the opportunity to write their own book. Can you share some success stories or moments of pride in your work?

I loved being part of the CGS first Indigenous round for rugby in 2022, which was why it was so special to be invited back this year to present the jerseys to the First XII women’s rugby team. What are your goals for the future? What are you currently working toward achieving be it personal or career related?

I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Business (Sports Management) at University of Canberra. Over the winter break I have been undertaking an internship with Foxtel, a part of their ESG team. I would like to work towards growing my knowledge and work experience to assist me in my future endeavours.