St Kilda Football Club's Moorabbin Airport First Nations & Multicultural Scholarship Program, thanks to the Goodman Foundation, is making a real impact inspiring the next generation of community leaders.

The scholarship program is an off-field initiative designed to support young First Nations and multicultural participants from the southern region on their community sporting journey.

Young First Nations footballer PJ Martin is a proud member of the program and spoke on her experiences...

From your perspective, how has the program grown over your time in it? 

We’re getting involved more with the football club now through media and design work etc., and the involvement of Saints players in our sessions has been awesome.

Reflecting on your journey, what personal growth have you experienced during your time in the program?

I’ve learned to really embrace my culture. It’s been amazing to share the experience with other Indigenous kids. Last year’s cultural food sharing was so good to experience other cultures and their traditional dishes, because I love trying new foods and seeing what other kids do back at home. It’s been a great experience and helped me grow into myself.

As you have been in the program for a number of years, how have you seen the program impact others around you within the program?

For me and my friend at the program it’s been amazing to learn new things that happen in day-to-day life of other kids.

What has been your favourite activity as part of the program so far?

I loved doing the design session because I didn’t know I could draw before that night. That really gave me confidence to draw and express myself through drawing. It made me believe I could do anything and enjoy something if I really have a go.

Can you share an experience where you felt the program positively challenged you?

Sometimes I have to miss sessions because of football trainings, which is really challenging, but juggling the two has been a challenge which has helped me grow.

In what ways has the program influenced your goals or aspirations beyond football?

It’s opened my eyes to different career paths and opportunities which has been great. The program is so good for young Indigenous kids like me to learn so many different things and feel like you’re not alone because there’s so many Indigenous kids going through the same things you are.

Have you noticed any changes in how you approach challenges or setbacks since joining the program?

My confidence has grown which has helped me talking to new people and interacting with others. Aunty Katrina Amon is amazing and has been a huge help for me.

What song describes your time in the program best?

I’m not sure, but when I’m in Melbourne, away from home (Tiwi Islands), I like to listen to country music because it reminds me of home and makes me feel connected to home and my family.

What are your final thoughts on the program?

It’s just been great. It feels like a big bunch of friends who you always look forward to seeing again and learning new things.