Maddie looks to future with global vision

The Nuriootpa High School student, who was one of only 27 students in the state to receive the 2016 Governor of SA Commendation, plans to enter the non-profit sector.

That is also the theme of her merit-receiving research project in the SA Certificate of Education. 

Madeline completed her research project looking at humanitarian initiatives and how they create sustainable changes in developing countries.

She said this was a topic of deep interest to her and linked in with her future studies and potential career.

Madeline said her drive stemmed from a family visit to India when she was seven years old.

“It really opened my eyes,” she said.

Madeline also received a merit in Psychology.

She has applied to study a Bachelor of Intercultural Studies at Tabor College in Adelaide, which she says will put her in good stead for her dream job with a not-for-profit organisation such as World Vision, the United Nations or charity RAW Impact.

But she would have to start mid-year as she already has a trip booked to Cambodia from March to July this year, volunteering with RAW Impact.

Outside academics, Madeline has also been busy.

She won the statewide Student Citizenship Award, and was a finalist in the Conservation Council of SA Young Achiever Awards and the Channel 9 Young Achievers Environmental Award.

She also received an honourable award in the 2016 Children’s Week Minister for Education and Child Development Awards and the Lions Club of the Barossa Valley Coulthard Prize for all-round academic success.

As president of the Nuriootpa High School student representative council, she lead the school in its fundraising for World Vision, through the 40-Hour Famine.

She said, for the past few years, they have managed to raise about $3400 annually.

“That’s a big achievement with only 20 to 30 students,” she said.

She also lobbied to build up the recycling at her school, and has already volunteered with communities in Cambodia.

Madeline said, the diversity of her activities, which also includes a job at the local supermarket, gave her “balance” during her final year of schooling.

“Everything else I do, I think of as a break from studying,” she said. “I don’t disregard other opportunities.”