The journey for award-winning law student Kiara Petterson is about to get longer as she plans what she is going to do after she graduates next year.
After recently being awarded the Queensland Law Society’s First Nations Student Award, the 23-year-old Bond University student now wants to pursue a career in commercial law and hopes to one day take her knowledge home to the Northern Territory to advocate for Indigenous people.
“As an Indigenous woman this work remains close to my heart. I hope my commitment to my studies and my contributions in other areas will influence and open more doors for Indigenous people, particularly young Indigenous women.”
Kiara is a Rak Mak Mak Marranunggu woman and descendant of the Tarnikini skin group from the Tiwi Islands, the Wardaman group from Katherine region, and the Wagadagam people from the Torres Strait Islands.
“Throughout my studies I have participated in various internships, work and volunteer positions.
“These volunteer positions have enabled me to give back to the local community and assist in helping people in vulnerable situations.”
“These experiences have broadened my perspectives as to what career opportunities are available upon completing my studies.
“Currently, I am interested in commercial law. Within a commercial firm I would also appreciate applying the knowledge, skills, and experience I’ve gained to participate in pro bono work.”
Kiara started at Bond as a Diploma of Legal Studies student in 2022 September. She moved into her Bachelor of Laws in May 2023 and is currently undertaking a litigation clinic in Brisbane.
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