Through partnerships with more than 60 primary and secondary schools, the program is on track to be supporting about 4000 students by year-end.

The Stars program aims to improve health, education and employment outcomes for participants by focusing on four important pillars:

• Education, training and employment

• Healthy lifestyles

• Wellbeing

• Community, culture and leadership

Stars Foundation launched in the Northern Territory, with its first program supporting 285 students. The NT program is an important heartland for the now-nationwide foundation and the local success stories speak for themselves.

Proud Larrakia woman and AKJ Services Manager Director Jessie Risk inspired a group of NT Stars at a recent induction day for students from Palmerston College and Taminmin College.

Through this engagement, students were able to learn about Jessie’s post-school journey and the pathways available for women in the civil construction industry. This was a deeply valuable experience for Stars student Nakia, who reflected positively on the experience. “Everyone was very friendly, and I really enjoyed the day,” she says. “All the businesses that attended gave us a lot of information about what they do and the opportunities that they can provide us. “I am thankful that AKJ Services hosted this day because I now know the possibilities open to me.”

The Stars programs are far reaching, diverse and inclusive, often engaging communities across regions.

Recently, Stars students from Tennant Creek High School and Tennant Creek Primary School hosted an annual Oz Tag Carnival that involved participants from Alice Springs, including Centralian Middle School, Centralian Senior College and Gillen Primary School.

The event promoted good health and wellbeing through sporting activities and encouraged social interactions where the students enjoyed meals together.

Encouraging a feeling of togetherness is critical for successful Stars programs. These opportunities come from relationships with experienced and friendly mentors, and bonds formed among the participants.

The programs often use cultural expression as pathways to create connection. As an example, participants from Jabiru Area School recently enjoyed a series of 10 weaving workshops where students were able to sit and yarn with senior women from their community, while they refined their craft.

Stars Foundation has many supporters including INPEX-led Ichthys Joint Venture, which aims to contribute to the NT’s vibrancy and economic resilience by working with local organisations to deliver vital programs and services in the areas of education and training and health and wellbeing.

Stars Foundation plays a fundamental role in providing hope to its participants by enabling opportunities to connect, learn and thrive in supportive and culturally appropriate settings.

To learn more about the programs or how you can provide support, visit starsfoundation.org.au