Big-name drawcardenthrals at expo

Broome personality and former West Australian of the Year Mark Bin Bakar hosted the 2018 Future Footprints Indigenous Career Expo in Perth on Tuesday, June 26.

The expo, attended by more than 250 regional and remote students living in Perth residential colleges, encouraged learning about the career and study opportunities available.

Dr Bin Bakar, a leading indigenous musician, comedian and writer known for his alter ego Mary G, Queen of the Kimberley, shared his experiences with the students.

He was accompanied by Curtin Medical School second-year student Tahnee Carter, who also shared her experiences with the students.

Hosted at Curtin University, the Future Footprints Expo was organised by the Association of Independent Schools of WA.

AISWA spokeswoman Roni Forrest said the expo gave students an opportunity to discuss university courses, entry pathways and scholarships, as well as having access to a range of training service providers for those who chose not to go on to further study.

“Planning is the key to a successful transition into a career, and we offer students access to as many pathways into as many different careers as possible,” she said.

“Students also need to meet and speak with role models for inspiration and get them thinking at an early age about their post-secondary options.”

Curtin University vice-chancellor Deborah Terry said the expo aimed to improve educational outcomes for indigenous students.

“The expo was designed to provide indigenous students from all over WA with information to assist them in making decisions about their future studies and career, and we were delighted to host this important event,” she said.

“The students had access to a range of post-secondary opportunities and offered them the chance to personally ask any questions about their options after school.”

The students also made use of an app to navigate their way around the various exhibitors, which included universities, government departments, TAFEs and other companies.