By Kantesha Ward
Year 12 Senior Boarders at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta held a Car Wash to raise funds for their end of year formal.
Raising $977, they washed various Waiben cars and sold mini packs of delicious jerky.
The fundraising initiative was organised and coordinated by the senior boarders who are proactively preparing for a successful final year of boarding at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta CEO Thomas Dunsmore was proud of the initiative and congratulated the senior boarders on their collaborative efforts.
“Our seniors did a great job, with support and help from Aunty Julie and Uncle David, who made the beef jerky,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“They have set a great example for our junior boarders and proved that you can plan and host a fundraiser,”
“It takes a lot for our young people to put themselves out there, but they each have an entrepreneurial spirit and that shined through at the Car Wash,” he said.
“It can be difficult for outer island families to contribute to these events when they live so far from the island, we are really proud of the progress our boarders have made on behalf of their families.”
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta is dedicated to creating opportunities for boarders that extend far beyond the classroom. Most recently, they are in the process of establishing and delivering a Year 13 & 14 Transition House for boarders to remain on Thursday Island to complete apprenticeships and other work experience.
“After Year 12, many of our boarders return to their home islands and face limited job prospects, inadequate housing and isolation,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“The Year 13 & 14 Transition House will provide safe, culturally grounded accommodation and wraparound support to help school leavers move into work, training and independent living,” he added.
This initiative is supported by the Ian Potter Foundation and will provide housing for up to eight young people annually on Waiben and deliver mentoring, life skills and wellbeing support, whilst connecting school leavers with job opportunities and partnerships
“Everything is in motion, but we are struggling to find the appropriate land or house,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“If anyone on Waiben is interested in discussing a sale or partnership, we welcome the conversation,” he added.
If you can provide support, please contact ceo@kaziwmeta.org.au
