Different journeys, one moment

No two journeys to graduation look the same, but each story is worth celebrating. At UQ’s mid-year Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sashing Ceremony, graduates from all walks of life came together to mark this milestone, share their stories, and inspire the next generation of students to dream bigger, push further, and know they belong here too.

For some, the journey began straight after school. For others, it started later in life, balancing study with work, family, and community commitments. Some graduates took longer than they first planned, navigating challenges along the way, while others knew exactly where they were headed from the start. But no matter how they got there, each graduate crossed the finish line, standing side by side to celebrate this moment together.

This year’s graduates came from a wide range of disciplines, from Engineering to Environmental Management, and included the first ever cohort to complete the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalisation. Each graduate’s story added to the rich tapestry of the day, reminding us that while the paths may be different, the pride and strength in reaching this moment are shared by all.

For Aunty Jacqui, a Traditional Owner and Elder of Gungulu, Kabi Kabi, Jinabura and Wakka Wakka and K'gari Nations, graduating from the new language revitalisation course was the realisation of a dream she’d held since childhood.

“My goal, and my dream when I was younger, [was] to come to UQ...I always wanted to graduate [university]...Even though I don’t always understand the academic language, I said to myself: I’m here for the long haul, I’m not going to give up, [I’m going to] continue and complete the course.”

That determination is now guiding her next steps — taking what she’s learned back to community, where she’ll help establish a Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi language program in local high schools — a legacy for her children, grandchildren, and future generations.

Standing proudly beside her on the day was Francis McCallum, who recently completed his PhD in nanotechnology. For him, it wasn’t just about the degree — it was about transformation. “I’m most proud of making it,” he said.

“It’s never too late to study again. If you’re stressed or need to take a break, don’t be discouraged — the uni isn’t going anywhere. It’ll be there when you’re ready to come back and continue your journey. And it’s worth it. It builds your character and deepens your understanding of the things you love.”

Now, he’s preparing to take his research global, having secured a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at the Quantum Institute in Takasaki, Japan, where he’ll continue his work in photolithography and nano-assembly for microchip production.

For Jade Yanner, a Gangalidda man from Burketown, graduating with a mechatronic engineering degree was the culmination of years of persistence — made possible by the community he found at UQ.

“I don’t know that I would have made it through this degree without the support and care I received while I was at the Unit. Not just from the staff but the students as well. It really made my time at this university.”

Now working as a field project engineer in western Queensland, Jade plans to keep building his career while finding time to travel and reflect on what comes next. His advice to future students:

“Really try to build your connections at university and don't just focus on your studies too. You have so much opportunity here to set yourself up so well for the future, really engage with everything that the university has to offer.”

The student speaker, Bailey Sumpton, reflected on the challenges he faced as an engineering student and the pivotal role the ATSIS Unit played in helping him feel like he belonged. From failing multiple courses in his first year to competing in Indigenous Nationals across the country, Bailey’s journey was one of resilience, growth, and finding strength in community.

“With the support of the ATSIS Unit, it really made me feel welcome — like I had a second home here at UQ. I wouldn’t be here without the tutoring and the mob around me. That support made all the difference.”

After sharing his own ups and downs, Bailey shifted his focus outward — offering a heartfelt message of encouragement to every graduate in the room, and to those still on their journey:

“Now, there’s no doubt that in the future, you’ll question the decisions that got you here. And when that happens, remind yourself of this:

I didn’t come this far just to come this far.

My journey hasn’t been perfect, and I’m proud of that. It’s the missteps, the growth, and course corrections that made it meaningful.

So for those graduating this semester and even to those still studying — while it might be the end of your tertiary education, it’s the start of a new chapter.

Whether you decide to pursue a master’s degree, join the workforce, or move to Canada for a ski season, think about the reason you started, the drive you had when you first got your acceptance letter to UQ.

This degree isn’t the end, but the foundation of your future — where we’ll walk out of here with stories that will inspire the next generation of Indigenous students to dream bigger, push further, and know they belong here too.”

A moment that echoes beyond today

More than just a celebration, the sashing ceremony was a reflection of identity, perseverance, and collective strength. Families, staff, and community members beamed with pride as each graduate was honoured for their achievements — and the journey that got them there.

In a room filled with laughter, tears, applause, and quiet pride, it was clear that every sash draped across each graduate’s shoulders represented more than just academic success — it symbolised stories, struggle, community, and a future built on strength.

Because while no two journeys are the same, they are all worth celebrating.