LEADERSHIP
Introducing our
Captains of School
Mia O’Callaghan & Francesca Zappia What is important to you about being Captain of School? Francesca: Being Captain of School is important to me because I have the opportunity to carry on the legacy of serving as a role model to the younger girls in the school. Even in my primary schooling, I always looked up to the School Councillors because they were so incredibly kind. This kindness is something I aspire to continue to spread as a leader at Loreto Toorak. I am so proud of my school as it constantly pushes us to work to our fullest potential and to pursue our passions in whatever domain they may be. The fact that I am able to represent a school which has such strong values and which I can wholeheartedly say that I love is incredibly special to me. Mia: I hold great value in acting as a role model and source of encouragement for all students at Loreto Toorak. It is essential that our girls – the next generation of leaders, can utilise the qualities and strengths they observe from Francesca and I and apply them to their own school life. By acting as examples that students can relate to and communicate with, they can understand the importance striving to be people of integrity, honesty and humility. The ability to give back to my school community through my leadership virtues of wisdom, knowledge and determination is of great importance to me.
What strengths do you bring to your role? Francesca: My top three character strengths are fairness, bravery and love of learning. I believe that fairness is a necessary trait in a Councillor, as a leader must treat everyone fairly and equally and encourage those around them to embody the same qualities. Bravery is relevant to my leadership position as there are many challenges one faces as a leader and this strength has armed me with an excitement to accept these challenges. My love of learning has always been apparent and it accompanies me in my daily life. I love learning about others and this skill has allowed me to be more open-minded in accepting others’ ideas. Mia: I pride myself in being someone that is approachable and personable to all those I interact with. I prioritise connecting, communicating effectively and engaging with a wide range of individuals including teachers, parents and students. I believe that being affable and warm allows one to have the ability to engage in conversation with any person that is in their presence. This is especially important when I am meeting and collaborating with new people, and making everyone feel comfortable. 10
