Georgie Burgess
11 February 2026: As the campus fills with the hustle and bustle of thousands of University of Canberra students taking part in O-Week activities to mark the start of another academic year – a smaller cohort of just 18 students is finding their feet as the first recipients of a Snow Scholarship.
Coming to the University from across regional New South Wales and the ACT, each recipient has been chosen for their resilience, strength and commitment to positive change.
“You have each faced challenges in your lives and you have thrived – and you will draw on the strength those challenges have given you to achieve amazing things,” said Professor the Honourable Bill Shorten, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canberra.
“We want to see you succeed, from your first semester to your last. UC and Snow Foundation will be here for you through the years ahead.”
Selected from a pool of 246 initial Expressions of Interest, 95 students were invited to submit a video application. This was further whittled down to 31 interviewees, with just 18 students finally selected as the first Snow Scholars. Five of the inaugural recipients come from First Nations families, including Birra Gubba, Torres Strait Islander, Kurnai, Wiradjuri, Gumbaynggirr and Gunditjmara heritage.
The program is the result of a 10-year commitment from Snow Foundation of over $20 million dollars, which will support 160 Snow Scholars over the decade.
“We are so proud to support and welcome this first cohort of Snow Scholars. They bring not only academic promise but resilience, heart, and a real sense of purpose. They are a diverse group, excelling in sport, leading community initiatives and social justice conversations. It’s a privilege to get to know them and walk alongside them on this journey,” Snow Foundation Chief Executive Officer Georgina Byron AM said.
Recipients recalled their surprise and joy at hearing the news that theirs had been selected out of hundreds of applications.
“I just sat there, a bit shell-shocked. To be honest it was something that I didn’t think was in reach and it was thanks to my careers advisor that I even applied … so it’s a very big opportunity,” Bachelor of Business (Sport Management) student Boady Dunne said.
The program is a uniquely supportive model. Scholars will receive wrap-around support throughout their studies, including financial support of up to $30,000 per year to assist with living costs, accommodation and travel, along with dedicated academic, personal and leadership support.
The group is already becoming fast friends, quickly bonding as they settle into a life away from their existing support networks, with many of the Scholars the first in their families to attend university.
“It’s given me a family away from home. The other 17 Scholars are amazing people who have similar values to me, including a passion and ambition for their studies,” Bachelor of Physiotherapy student Kaeleigh Peard said.
“It has given me a real sense of hope.”
The program is also providing a sense of optimism for life after graduation.
Growing up across the Central West and regional New South Wales, university wasn’t something that was always easily seen& as a next step for Bachelor of Primary Education student Isabella Cole – but a school-based apprenticeship working as a School Learning Support Officer during high school sparked the desire to further her studies.
“Hopefully in my future, I’ll be able to go back home and work in regional schools. I’m also keen to go and work across the Northern Territory in remote schools. I just really want to give back to the community,” she said.
Studying a Bachelor of Business (Sports Management) at UC, Boady is driven to improve access and pathways for junior and regional athletes. Growing up as an athlete himself in Eden, NSW, he experienced firsthand the inequities faced by regional athletes, kindling his passion for improving access in regional communities. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Boady looks forward to helping young people unlock their potential by building healthier, inclusive and more connected communities in rural and regional areas, and using sport as a tool to promote integrity and societal change. Outside of study, he enjoys sports and spending time on or in the ocean.
Studying a Bachelor of Health Science at UC, Holly is focused on improving healthcare access in rural and remote communities. Growing up in Cargo, NSW, a town with fewer than 600 people, her close-knit community shaped the person she is today and taught her the importance of genuine care and support. Seeing firsthand how limited access to healthcare can impact rural and remote individuals inspired her passion for Health Science. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Holly is excited to give back to regional and remote communities by improving healthcare and demonstrating that “where you come from doesn’t limit what you can achieve”. Outside study, she enjoys walking, football, reading and watching films.
Studying a Bachelor of Business at UC, Hudson is drawn to problem solving, teamwork and growing into leadership and management roles. Raised in Port Macquarie NSW, he values hard work, treating people with respect, and never judging a book by its cover. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Hudson aims to continue to grow personally, academically and professionally, build new networks and friends, and create a lasting positive impact through the program. Outside study, he enjoys the gym, mountain biking, wakeboarding and time with family and friends.
Studying a Bachelor of Politics and International Relations at UC, Indigo is focused on how policies and institutions shape social outcomes. Growing up in Bellingen, NSW highlighted the importance of access to healthcare, education and services for small regional communities. With a Snow Scholarship, Indigo looks forward to accessing mentoring, pursuing academic opportunities and joining a community of students that transforms learning into societal change. She enjoys socialising with friends, cooking and spending time with her pets.
Isabella loves working and building meaningful connections with kids, and is studying for a Bachelor of Primary Education at UC. She grew up across the Central West and Southern Tablelands of NSW. She works as a School Learning Support Officer and has been inspired to expand her career in the education sector, with the view to support children with diverse needs as a teacher. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Isabella is looking forward to expanding her capability to transform lives through education and draw on a supportive network to enable her to give back to community even more. Outside study, she enjoys travelling, volunteering at her local sports clubs, and spending time with friends and family.
Studying a Bachelor of Vision Science at UC, Isiah is driven to help disadvantaged communities access quality eye care and experience the beauty of Australia. Though he grew up in Kempsey, NSW, it was his regular travels across the continent at a young age that shaped a deep gratitude and respect for the different cultures and knowledge systems in Australia. The experience was eye-opening, and he is driven to enable others to experience the same thing. Isiah’s goals at UC include contributing to community life and learning from his peers. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Isiah aims to build practical skills, gain real world experience and contribute to community initiatives while forming friendships that support personal growth. Outside study, he enjoys the gym, playing golf and detailing cars.
Studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of Canberra, Josh grew up in Young, NSW, where he had an incredible small-town community experience that he wouldn’t trade for the world, which has shaped him into a determined and compassionate young person. Josh was drawn to physiotherapy as a meaningful and practical way to help individuals restore purpose in their lives and wants to leverage his skills to make positive change. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, he aims to develop his leadership and confidence and grow his capacity to contribute meaningfully to his community in lasting ways, including inspiring other young people to pursue their passions. Outside study, he plays competitive soccer and cricket, enjoys social sports and regularly attends the gym.
Studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at UC, Kaeleigh is excited to combine her interests in biology and sport to improve people’s quality of life. Born in regional Japan and raised on the NSW South Coast, Kaeleigh’s multicultural heritage has gifted her an appreciation for language and diversity. She’s inspired by the power to make lasting change, whether that's helping children learn to use prosthetics or supporting someone to walk again after an accident. With a Snow Scholarship, Kaeleigh aims to make connections within UC and the wider community, develop leadership skills, stay open-minded and give her best in study while exploring how she can contribute to the community. Outside of study, she enjoys volunteering as a surf lifesaver at her local surf club; playing bass guitar; crocheting; and staying active through soccer, running and swimming.
Studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at UC, Kai is a proud Kurnai and Gunditjmara man whose upbringing has been shaped by strong connections to family, culture, sport and community. Inspired by his beloved Pop – a member of the Stolen Generation – and learning culture through stories on Country, smoking ceremonies and strong leadership, Kai values cultural pride and giving back to local community. With a Snow Scholarship, Kai aims to balance cultural commitments, sport and study, and grow as a leader to show other young Aboriginal people that their goals are achievable regardless of background. Outside of study, he enjoys rugby league, playing guitar and supporting his family with cultural ceremonies and performances.
Studying a Bachelor of Primary Education at UC, Layla is inspired to help primary school students feel seen, valued and cared for. Growing up in Goulburn, NSW, she liked the slower pace of life in her regional community but sometimes struggled to find a sense of belonging and purpose – she came across as shy and nervous in primary school, blending into the background of the classroom. When she trusted her intuition and made the decision to move schools in high school, the experience showed her that while change can be uncomfortable, it can also present new challenges that reveal the best version of yourself. She found her place, and her voice, and learned that being a great teacher extends far beyond the curriculum into helping students realise their own potential and supported to feel comfortable and capable just the way they are. She champions the value of a supportive community and is driven to give her students the same inspiring, memorable experiences she had. With a Snow Scholarship, Layla looks forward to personal growth, opportunity and support, and developing her leadership skills to make positive, lifelong impacts as a future teacher. Outside of study, she loves dancing, competing in dance competitions, and spending time with family and pets.
Studying a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at UC, Lily grew up in Merimbula, NSW, where she gained a deep respect and appreciation for the environment and the ocean. She was first drawn to physiotherapy based on her own experiences with health and movement – two elements that are integral to a person’s quality of life. She is driven to make a difference in future knowledge, management and treatment for people facing their own personal challenges relating to physiotherapy, and bringing that knowledge back to community. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Lily is driven to build connections and friendships, learn from others, broaden her mindset and live out her values of learning and giving back as she begins university life. Outside study, she enjoys spearfishing, going to the gym, painting and snowboarding.
Locklan grew up in Adelaide, South Australia. Studying a Bachelor of Government at UC, he is motivated by the power of policy to improve lives. Having lived on his own since the age of 16, Locklan values independence and resilience. He has always been interested in good governance and the impact policy has on community, leading to a passion for solving national challenges. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Locklan looks forward to developing his leadership skills, learning alongside a network of young leaders and building the capacity to address real community problems through practical solutions. Outside study, he volunteers with Rotary, advocates for young people, builds botanical Lego sets and cooks for friends.
Madison is studying a Bachelor of Secondary Education (Health and Physical Education) at UC. Growing up in Junee, NSW, she experienced a strong sense of community which has shaped who she is today. Combining her passion for sport with her inspiring experiences of previous teachers led her to her secondary teaching, where she’s driven to pass positive, inspiring experiences onto the next generation. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Madison looks forward to gaining more leadership experience that will support her career and life in general. Outside study, she has a passion for lawn bowls, in which she competes at a national level, and enjoys woodworking and spending time with family and friends.
Michael lives and works in environments where disability is part of everyday life and has seen firsthand how inadequately-designed spaces can create barriers to participation. Drawing on his interests in creating and problem-solving, he’s determined to improve the built environment so that it is welcoming, inclusive and functional for everyone. That’s why he’s studying a Bachelor of the Built Environment (Architecture)/Bachelor of the Built Environment (Interior Architecture) at UC – and he’s looking forward to all the challenges and the learning ahead, and especially being part of the supportive, collaborative and tight-knit Snow Scholarship Program community. Michael has a passion for visual arts, finding creative expression through oil painting, murals, and other mediums. Together with his lifelong love of outdoor adventure, competitive sailing, fitness and self-improvement, these interests continue to shape his understanding of the world.
Studying a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science at UC, Oliver is passionate about improving access to sport services for people in regional Australia, bringing support closer to home. Oliver grew up in Dubbo NSW and was encouraged by his family, teachers and rugby coaches to adopt a ‘have-a-go' attitude and a strong commitment to community. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Oliver aims to strengthen his leadership skills, connect with a network of support and guidance, and build a strong foundation for a career serving regional communities. Outside study, he plays rugby and enjoys time with friends.
Studying a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) at UC, Sireyah is dedicated to conservation, sustainability, and kindness. Growing up in Sussex Inlet, NSW, her experiences volunteering with Marine Rescue gave her a deep respect for the environment and community service, leading her to pursue Environmental Science. She values kindness as one of the most important qualities a person can have and believes that “what matters most in life is having a kind heart". Despite experiencing severe anxiety from a young age, Sireyah embodies her kindness with confidence through her dedication to caring for others, her commitment to being a good steward for the environment, and pursuing a meaningful, impactful career with the power to change lives. As a Snow Scholar, Sireyah is looking forward to connecting with a supportive community and strengthening her ability to make a positive impact through her studies and future career. Outside study, she enjoys reading, family time and beach walks.
With her Dad being in the Navy, Tali has called many places in Australia home – today, home is Canberra, as she pursues a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at UC. A proud Indigenous woman with Birra Gubba and Torres Strait Islander heritage, Tali enjoys spending time with her family on a continuous journey of deepening cultural knowledge and understanding. She looks forward to taking her skills and knowledge into remote Indigenous communities after graduation. Tali loves kids and initially thought of becoming a teacher – but an Occupational Therapy placement when she was studying for her Cert III in Allied Health Assistance at CIT lead her down a different path. She enjoys the one-on-one relationships she can build with OT clients and is looking forward to the same close-knit community ties within the Snow Scholarship program. Tali loves sports and teaches kids to swim; you’ll also find her playing netball and footy – touch, Oztag and AFL.
Studying a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation at UC, Toby is committed to helping people rebuild strength and confidence. He grew up in Blayney, NSW, a small rural town where “everyone pitched in and helped each other”. A sudden cardiac arrest in 2023 took Toby by surprise, sharpening his perspective and kindling his passion for quality rehabilitation alongside his existing love of sport and fitness. As a Snow Scholarship recipient, Toby is looking forward to bringing his knowledge back to rural communities, particularly regarding access to quality care and recovery pathways. Outside study, he enjoys tennis, the gym and watching films.
