Valued at $6,000, the AAL First Nations Scholarship is awarded to support a First Nations student in the final year of their studies. In addition to financial assistance, the recipient is also paired with an AAL fellow for mentoring and professional guidance.

Since commencing her degree at 17, AAL noted that Phineasa has established an impressive academic record, alongside extensive community involvement and volunteer experience.

She currently works as a litigation officer at Legal Aid Queensland, while also serving on the Commonwealth’s First Nations Youth Advisory Group and as co-convenor of the Youth Design Group for the National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition.

Phineasa said her inspiration to pursue a career in law stemmed from the stories her grandparents shared about the racism they endured – stories that now fuel her determination to create change through the legal system.

“Talking to my relatives and hearing about their lived experience lit a flame for me. I come from a long line of ancestors who have suffered discrimination and survived – because I have been blessed with education and support, I feel I have a responsibility now to carry the torch,” she said.

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As the recipient of this scholarship, her focus moving forward is to support and empower other First Nations youths.

“I want to lift them up, activate their potential and, where possible, keep them out of the legal system,” she said.

“I feel strongly that we need to work towards system change and invest hope in First Nations young people. I want to give back – that’s my number one goal.”

This year’s judging panel, chaired by the Hon Pamela Tate AM KC, alongside the Hon Justice Lincoln Crowley and Professor Natalie Skead, commended Phineasa’s achievements and potential.

“The judging panel considered Rikisha to have demonstrated consistent academic excellence in her studies,” Tate stated.

“She also has substantial community involvement and experience. It is clear she is determined to use her education and work experience to benefit her people and the Australian community, and is well-placed to be a future First Nations leader in the law.”

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