Manoa Ratabalouva: Aboriginal Student of the Year

St Agnes Rooty Hill

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Mrs Lesley Williams, announced at the start of 2016 the inaugural (and annual) Aboriginal Student of the Year awards. The Aboriginal Student of the Year is an award recognising young people who demonstrate leadership within their school and local community.

This years NAIDOC Week theme: Songlines:The living narrative of our nation, celebrates the stories of achievement of Indigenous Australians so it is quite fitting that Manoa Ratabalouva, from St Agnes Catholic High School Rooty Hill was presented with the inaugural Aboriginal Student of the Year for the Mount Druitt electorate on the eve of NAIDOC Week.

On Friday Emeritus Mayor of Blacktown, Mr Charlie Lowles was on hand to present this award to Manoa at a whole school assembly on behalf of Mr Edmond Atalla, Member of Mount Druitt in the NSW Parliament.

As recognition of his achievements Manoa received a certificate and a gift voucher. The top students from the award nominations across NSW will head to Sydney in August to attend the Emerging Leaders Forum, where they will meet with Aboriginal, business and Government leaders.

St Agnes Catholic High School Principal, Mr Peter Regan said, “Manoa was a worthy recipient due to his commitment to the school community, his politeness, helpfulness, sincereness towards his peers and for generally being a respectful young man who always completes what is asked of him.”

“This award highlights the outstanding contributions that young students make within their community and I warmly congratulate Manoa on his win. Manoa has a positive influence on other students, and teammates, and an ability to guide his fellow peers to get involved in many different activities.”

“He is a diligent and mature student who is a strong role model for his fellow peers. This award is well deserved.” Mr Peter Regan said.