For Year 9 student Ava Pensio, water has always been a place of calm and connection. Growing up in Cooktown, weekends meant snorkelling, spearfishing and soaking in the world beneath the surface.
The transition to boarding school at St Peter’s Lutheran College in Brisbane brought a different kind of deep dive into independence, responsibility and the unknown.
“When I first came, it was hard,” Ava said. “Not being with family and adjusting to boarding life took time. But once I settled in, it got a lot easier.”
In her third year with Cape York Leaders Program (CYLP), Ava now reflects on her personal growth. With the support of mentors and a close network of fellow scholars, she has learned to stand on her own while staying connected to her roots.
“CYLP staff help with everything from school stuff, like uniforms and supplies, to just checking in at lunch. It really makes a difference.”
She first heard about the program through family and friends already on the scholarship. That network helped her take the leap and since then, she’s made new friendships across schools and communities, especially at term events and leadership camps.
Academically, Ava’s favourite subject is English and she is now considering following in her mum’s footsteps by working in healthcare, possibly as a speech pathologist.
“My mum’s always supported me. I’ve told her I want to do what she does, and she thinks it’s a great job and she can give me advice along the way.”
Outside of school, Ava still treasures her time back home fishing, crafting and heading out on the water with her dad. “One time we were out on the reef and saw a shark while spearfishing,” she says. “It was scary but kind of cool, too.”
Looking back, Ava says boarding school has made her more mature and self-reliant. For others considering CYLP, she offers a clear message:
“It’s a great scholarship. There are so many supportive people around you. It really sets you up for a better future.”
Ava is charting her own course, one as expansive and promising as the reef she calls home.
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