‘If every Indigenous person had the same opportunities I had, it could change the world’: #GOFurther

Cultural identity is a strong driver of educational success for Indigenous Australians which is why the GO Foundation, founded by Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin, is encouraging students to embrace both in the #GOFurther campaign.

The Foundation has focused on education since 2014 and funds Indigenous scholarships from kindergarten to university.

Research conducted by the GO Foundation and KPMG Arrilla Indigenous Services in 2017 showed a clear correlation between a strong cultural identity and participation and achievement in education and training by Indigenous students.

The Research considered four separate parts of cultural engagement including participation in cultural events, cultural identity, language and participation in traditional economic activities.

The message that education gives freedom and culture gives strength underpins the foundation’s new campaign #GOFurther.

Great segment on @ABCTV @abc730 on @GOFoundationAU
Founders #adamGoodes & @MickOLoughlin 'want more black faces in the boardroom' https://t.co/CGl8qgV30H via @ABCNews #gofoundation #GOfurther #education @PEFOZ @sydneyswans

— sam mostyn (@sammostyn) December 4, 2018

Lua, is a GO student who knows first hand the power of education and the importance of fostering her cultural identity. She has told her story in a video made by the GO Foundation in conjunction with the RealSkillsRealCareers team at the Department of Education.