The University of Queensland has celebrated a record mid-year cohort of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates, with 16 graduands honoured at the 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Sashing Ceremony.
UQ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement), Professor Bronwyn Fredericks, addressed the graduands, saying that the growing number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students reflected both the University's commitment to Indigenous student success and the students' determination to achieve their goals.
"... what a celebration this is," Professor Fredericks said.
"One that reflects not only the growing number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students choosing UQ, but your sticking power and your drive to see things through."
Nywaigi descendant and Bachelor of Computer Science graduate, Zachariah Nehow, spoke about overcoming isolation and self-doubt after relocating from Atherton to Brisbane for study. He credited the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit (ATSIS Unit) with helping him find connection, confidence and purpose during his degree.
"Looking back, it's pretty funny how nervous I was about going [to the ATSIS Unit]," Mr Nehow said.
"I think I was expecting a group of seasoned university veterans who weren’t worried about some new kid, but instead I found some of the most important people in my life."
Mununjali, Kombumerri and Rotuman descendant and Bachelor of Business Management / Arts, Callagan Williams, spoke about the power of purpose, community and culture in shaping his journey through university.
Mr Williams reflected on six-and-a-half years of study and described his desire to create change through education, language revitalisation and Indigenous language teaching.
"I want to change the world," he said.
"I want to leave it better. I want to see the obstacles I encountered be dismantled and removed."
"I would not be here today without my village... But with my village (or truthfully, perhaps it should be “my metropolis”), I am here."
