Samirah's story starts in Karama – and it's just beginning
Samirah is a proud Walpiri, Warumungu, Yanyula and Kaylelye young woman from Karama, in Darwin. Samirah grew up close to family and grounded in her connection to Country. As the eldest, she has always been the one her siblings look to for leadership.
Samirah chose to attend boarding school for the opportunities it would bring.
“Scotch College is preparing me for the future by helping me become more independent and work towards my goals. I’m really grateful for this opportunity – it’s going to make such a difference for me.”
Samirah and fellow Yalari students at Orientation Camp 2025.
Samirah speaking at Scotch College’s 2026 National Reconciliation Week Assembly.
One of her favourite parts of school is feeling like she’s always surrounded by her people, spending every day with friends, cousins, and family friends. With her confidence growing, Samirah is setting her sights even higher.
“I couldn’t have made the state Under 12 basketball team if I didn’t come to Scotch. Now I’m focused on playing basketball professionally when I leave school.”
Samirah is one of 271 Indigenous students currently supported by Yalari across 23 boarding schools. Each of them left home, took a place at a school, at times far from their community, and found people there who showed up for them.
Through education, opportunity, belief, and long-term support, these young people are stepping into leadership in their own way.
