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Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts has been awarded the prestigious Law Council of Australia's 2018 John Koowarta Scholarship.
The national scholarship is dedicated to supporting the ambitions of Indigenous law
Motivated by her challenging childhood, Turnbull-Roberts aims to pursue a career in child protection, juvenile justice and law reform that supports Indigenous people, youth, asylum seekers and refugees.
"My life has encompassed many challenges and adversities, which has driven me to where I am today," she says.
"After losing my father last October, and then a few days later my mother, I am grateful for the significant strength and resilience that is entrenched within me to complete my degree."
Law Council President, Morry Bailes (pictured) says Vanessa is an outstanding candidate and is well deserving of this award.
Ms Turnbull-Roberts is a passionate young woman who strives to empower growth, determination, leadership and promotes the wellbeing of Indigenous people," he says.
"She is a remarkable individual, with an exciting and bright future ahead of her."
At the age of 11, she was placed in out-of-home care and her personal experience with the system has been a catalyst for her to study law.
"I aim to combine policy and direct practice in order to develop programs that enhance empowerment within Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities," she says.
"I am completing my degree for my parents, community, and family, and most importantly for all the old people who have walked before me and have fought for our rights - they have taken much larger steps in order for us to be where we are today, and as the next generation we will continue to as well."
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