For Torres Strait Islander man Lachlan Bon, coming to The University of Queensland was more than a move from Bowen to Brisbane—it was the beginning of a journey that would eventually bring him full circle.
Today, Lachlan works as Senior Officer, Marketing and Communication, for the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement), helping share the stories, achievements and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the University. But his own UQ story began as a young student leaving his North Queensland community in pursuit of higher education.
Like many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, the decision to move away from home was both exciting and daunting.
"Leaving behind family, community, and everything familiar was daunting," Lachlan recalls.
"I was nervous about stepping into a big city, figuring out public transport, and meeting new people. It felt like I was starting all over again in a place that was completely different from home."
Fortunately, Lachlan's connection with UQ began before he enrolled. Through UQ's InspireU program, he attended campus experiences while still at school, spending time on campus, learning about university life and meeting other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across Queensland.
Those experiences planted the seed for what would come next.
"For the first time, I saw other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students walking proudly on a university campus, thriving in their studies, staying strong in culture and supporting each other," he says.
"That moment showed me there was a place for me here."
When Lachlan commenced his studies, he found that place within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit (ATSIS Unit). More than a support service, the Unit became a home away from home.
"From the moment I started university, the Unit became my second home," he says.
"Having that space and support network made the transition to Brisbane so much easier."
Like many students, Lachlan's pathway wasn't always straightforward. After realising his initial degree wasn't the right fit, he sought guidance from the ATSIS Unit and successfully transitioned into a Bachelor of Arts, studying Ancient History, History, Media and Digital Cultures before later completing Honours in Communication and Cultural Studies.
"My journey was not straightforward ... But I always had strong support from the ATSIS Unit, particularly during the transition between degrees," he says.
Outside the classroom, Lachlan found community through Goorie Berrimpa, UQ's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student collective. Through sporting, cultural and social activities, he forged friendships that helped him navigate university life and maintain strong cultural connections while living away from home.
"Going to Goorie events and being part of that community gave me strength and helped me feel connected even when I was far from home," he says.
Some of his fondest memories include representing UQ at Indigenous Nationals, travelling across Australia and meeting Indigenous students from other universities. Yet, it is often the everyday moments he remembers most.
"The smaller things mean just as much—movie nights, games nights, or even just playing cards in the Unit. Those moments remind you that you are not alone and that you have a community here walking alongside you every step of the way."
Financial support also played a significant role in his success. Scholarship funding enabled Lachlan to live at Emmanuel College, easing the financial pressures associated with relocating and allowing him to focus on his studies and university experience.
The experience proved life-changing in more ways than one.
"What made it even more special was meeting and living with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students," Lachlan says.
"That community helped with homesickness, and it's also where I met my wife and made lifelong friends."
Giving Back Through Storytelling
Today, Lachlan draws on his own experiences to support Indigenous engagement and tell stories that inspire others.
Working within the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement), he helps showcase the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, researchers and communities, ensuring their voices and experiences are visible across the University.
His role holds particular meaning because he understands firsthand the importance of representation, belonging and culturally safe spaces.
As a high school student attending InspireU, seeing other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people thriving at university helped him imagine a future for himself at UQ. Now, through his work, he helps create that same sense of possibility for the next generation.
Reflecting on his own journey, Lachlan remains grateful for the support networks, opportunities and friendships that helped him thrive.
"You will face challenges, but you will also grow in ways you never imagined," he says.
"Lean on the support available to you. You do not have to do this journey alone."
For Lachlan, the journey from student to staff member demonstrates what can happen when Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are supported to succeed while staying connected to culture, community and each other.
"One day you will carry with you all the skills, knowledge and experiences you gain," he reflects.
"What you achieve can make a real difference, not only in your own life, but in building up and strengthening your community for the future."
