Fogarty Foundation 2024 Report
We are pleased to share with you the 2024 Fogarty Report.
Enabling – and enhancing – Western Australia’s potential through education continues to be the driving focus of the Fogarty Foundation. Our most recent Fogarty Report captures our activities and continuing impact in 2023 and our aims and partnerships in 2024.
We look forward to continuing to raise educational aspirations and excellence throughout 2024, with a focus on:
Next Generation Leaders: Empowering, extending and creating opportunities for high achieving and high potential young people, including through the UWA Fogarty Scholarship Program, which marked its 20th anniversary in 2023.
Excellent Teaching for all Students: Inspiring excellence and high-quality instruction in schools by investing in teachers, school leaders and school principals to ensure that all students receive a high-quality education.
Future Ready Students: Catalysing innovation in education to ensure that today’s students are equipped with skills for the future.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Foundation & we look forward to connecting with you throughout 2024
Annie and Brett Fogarty
Grattan Institute Research
Since its inception, the Fogerty Foundation has recognised the challenges confronting Australia’s – and Western Australia’s – education system. With over 800 schools dispersed across the state, a significant portion, if not all, are struggling to keep pace with the evolving demands of modern education. New research from the Grattan Institute sheds light on these challenges and shows how a different way of organising schools could help each meet the demands of modern education.
This stark reality underscores a fundamental truth: the conventional approach of treating each school as an isolated ‘island’ is no longer viable. Operating individually, these schools lack the collective strength and resources necessary to navigate the complexities of contemporary education. They exist as separate entities, in a sea of challenges, many which are distant from effective collaborative networks or support systems which are enablers for improvement.
In response, a paradigm shift is imperative. Grattan recommends we must move beyond ‘island’ schools and presents the concept of Multi-School Organisations (MSOs) as the answer. An MSO is a concept that aims to improve education outcomes by creating strong networks of schools. Introducing MSOs would help respond to the challenges facing WA’s schools. By uniting clusters of schools under unified leadership structures, MSOs provide the organisational coherence needed to drive meaningful change. They strike a balance between individual autonomy and centralised oversight, fostering collaboration, resource sharing, and collective problem-solving. The Grattan Institute’s research underscores the potential of MSOs as a catalyst for school improvement. By harnessing the collective strength of multiple schools, MSOs can leverage resources more effectively, share best practice, and provide targeted support where it is most needed. This collaborative approach is essential for breaking down barriers to progress and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students in our state.
Why is this new model worth contemplating? In research done in 2015, a long-standing member of our Board of Trustees, Emeritus Professor Bill Louden AM found that ‘stable, long-term leadership and explicit school improvement plans were aspects which high performing primary schools had in common’. It is hard to find an exceptional leader to stay long-term in every school in the state. MSOs could help. They give new principals a softer landing, and provide a secure leadership base, so positive transformations that begin under one principal are seen through under successive principals.
In 2012 the Fogarty Foundation introduced Fogarty EDvance, a program dedicated to evidence-based professional development for school leadership teams and fostering connections among educators within cohorts. The primary goal was to cultivate a culture of learning and support, where school leaders could glean insights from one another and provide mutual assistance, whilst developing and implementing a comprehensive plan for whole school improvement. By participating in the Program, these groups offer each other a supportive framework wherein they can exchange knowledge, teaching methods, and confront challenges together. Fogarty EDvance, now comprising almost 150 schools from low socio-economic communities, indirectly incorporates many components of the MSO framework, enabling positive transformations – and improved educational outcomes – to be achieved in challenging school contexts.
The Fogarty EDvance School Improvement Program operates on the principle of being driven by the needs and contexts of individual schools and their leaders, ensuring adaptability and relevance. It empowers school leaders to review the evidence of their school’s effectiveness, to pinpoint effective practices and integrate them into their educational settings to address the issues identified, in order of priority. EDvance believes in the transformative power of strong leadership, recognising it as the linchpin for successful whole-school improvement strategies, particularly in fostering high-impact teaching practices. Through professional development and collaborative networks, the Program acts as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and greater effectiveness in education.
However, while MSOs offer great promise, they are not an instant remedy. To realise their full potential, MSOs must be supported by robust regulatory frameworks and rigorous evaluation mechanisms. Governments, education authorities, and stakeholders must collaborate to establish mechanisms that hold MSOs fully accountable for their performance and ensure they deliver on their promise of improved outcomes for all students. These efforts should be supported by embedding the common provision of relevant services, allowing teachers and leaders to focus on their core responsibilities at the school site.
The recommendations from the Grattan Institute underscore the importance of trialing Multi-School Organisations (MSOs) across different players in the education system; state, catholic and independent. We support the Grattan recommendation that trials should be led by state and territory governments, with funding and regulatory support from the federal government, as, with all significant reforms, a partnership approach will be needed. By embracing MSOs, Western Australia can nurture greater collaboration, innovation, and excellence, leveraging its high performing schools and leaders, to enhance educational outcomes for all students.
The Fogarty Foundation is dedicated to ensuring all children get access to a high-quality, well-rounded education. To that end, we are pleased to support students from schools in low socio-economic communities to participate in the educational component of Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe Beach.
This initiative provides students with direct exposure to creativity in the sculptural arts, led by artists, which was well received given the enthusiastic involvement of the students in March. By enabling students to interact with public sculptures, the Education Program seeks to stimulate creativity and inspire, ideally laying the groundwork for future artistic endeavors. As part of the Foundation’s first year of support for the program, 3 classes attended in total from North Balga Primary School and Nollamara Primary School participated in the School Education Program.
‘This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to engage with a wide variety of artistic materials and processes, in a magical setting. Thank you so much for allowing us to attend, through your generous funding, as we would otherwise have missed out.’
Nancy Thomas, Visual Art Teacher, North Balga Primary School
Many students from low socioeconomic backgrounds have limited exposure to cultural experiences. The annual Sculpture by the Sea event at Perth’s Cottesloe Beach allows these students to access a world of artistic expression that might otherwise be beyond their reach. The Fogarty Foundation’s support ensures that financial constraints do not hinder their ability to partake in this enriching cultural experience, fostering a sense of inclusivity and helping to broaden horizons.
So, why bother with the arts? Approximately 73% of organisations surveyed in the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Survey reported that creative thinking skills was a top priority for them when considering future talent needs, agreeing that this skill set is increasing in relevance and importance (Forbes, 2024). For the students we support, a visit to Sculpture by the Sea becomes a classroom without walls. The interactive workshops offered as part of the exhibition provide a unique learning experience. The Program is carefully designed to extend learning about art by exposing students to diverse artistic expression, encouraging critical thinking, and hopefully, developing a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
For example, artist Mikaela Castledine eloquently conveyed this to the students when explaining that, although they wouldn’t leave with anything tangible in their hands, they would carry lasting impressions in their minds.
‘Mikaela’s workshop was fun because it is good to try something different, and by doing it, I will remember it.’
Han, Year 6 Student, North Balga Primary School
Arts education is a cornerstone of developing well-rounded individuals who can navigate the complexities of the world. By providing students with the tools to appreciate and engage with the arts, the Program contributes to the development of a generation that is both culturally and creatively aware.
Established in 2003, the UWA Fogarty Scholarship Program is one of Australia’s premier scholarship programs. It awards WA’s brightest and most committed students, scholarships for the entirety of their university degree.
The Program aims to strengthen our society by investing in exceptional young people who can use their skills and commitment to lead significant positive change in our community, state and nation. The Scholarship is a joint initiative between the Fogarty Foundation and the University of Western Australia and 2023 marked the 20th anniversary of the establishment of this special partnership.
The latest cohort of our exceptional scholars was welcomed at the annual UWA Fogarty Scholar’s Welcome Breakfast, held on 7th March 2024.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor David Sadler, set the tone with inspirational remarks based on his close involvement in, and support for, the Scholarship Program over the past seven years. He noted the growth and achievement he has seen fostered by the Scholarship over that time.
A focal point of the Welcome Breakfast were the candid addresses by current UWA Fogarty Scholar Nicholas Ng and alumni Elizabeth Knight. Both shared their experiences, challenges, and successes, offering invaluable advice on achieving a balance between academic pursuits and taking full advantage of life at university whilst also managing their well-being. Both speakers also provided real-world insights as to how to navigate the challenging transition from secondary school to university, as the new Scholars embark on their own leadership journeys.
”The theme of my speech for today’s event centres around the amazing people in this room. It is what I have enjoyed the most about this Scholarship; the people and the excellent connections that I have made.”
Nicholas Ng, UWA Fogarty Scholar
In particular, Elizabeth and Head of Student Life, Lisa Goldacre, both encouraged the students to participate in the innovative new Wayfinder program, which has been established by Elizabeth’s organisation Purposeful, in collaboration with UWA.
The new Scholars come from a number of different backgrounds and plan to study a diverse range of fields. This year’s cohort includes three students from non-metro backgrounds, from as far apart as Geraldton in the northwest to Dalyellup and Esperance in the south. Areas of study span disciplines from law and medicine to mechanical engineering, philosophy and behavioural sciences.
Our full cohort for 2024 and their chosen fields of study are:
Greta Bushell – Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Matteo Conte – Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Eva Czislowski – Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
Elena Latchem – Bachelor of Biomedicine (Specialised) (Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice), with an Assured Pathway to Medicine
Neemyana Lathia – Bachelor of Biomedicine (Specialised) (Integrated Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice), with an Assured Pathway to Medicine
Greta Lynch – Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) with Assured Pathway to Juris Doctor
Shreeya Naroth – Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours), double majoring in Microbiology & Immunology and Public Health
India Newman – Doctor of Medicine via Bachelor of Biomedicine (Specialised)
Travis Shearer – Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
Matthew Vinci – Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Finance and Economics, with an Assured Pathway to the Juris Doctor
Zoe Wallin – Bachelor of Science Majoring in Psychology and Behavioural Sciences
The 2024 cohort follows past Scholars and Alumni who have gone on to achieve great things in their field. The Foundation believes in the potential of these Scholars to illuminate new paths, question the status quo, and contribute meaningfully to society. Their journey is not just a personal one but a collective journey as they join the UWA Fogarty Scholars of the past and make meaningful lifelong connections (to meet all our Scholars and Alumni, click here).
We extend our congratulations to the UWA Fogarty Scholars Class of 2024 and wish them well. The Foundation looks forward to witnessing the impact they will make, both within the academic realm and their Scholar community. The Welcome Breakfast set the stage for another year of achievement and growth as the Fogarty Foundation continues to proudly partner with UWA in supporting the young leaders of tomorrow.
As advocates for a quality education no matter where a child lives in Western Australia, the Fogarty Foundation acknowledges that Australia has a literacy crisis. Given the importance of ensuring every child has the essential skills for success, we recognise the imperative of transforming the way reading is taught in our schools. The recent findings from the Grattan Institute’s report on reading abilities serve as a call for action, reaffirming the need for systemic reform that utilises evidence-based interventions.
At the heart of Australia’s reading problem lies a decades-long debate over pedagogical approaches to teaching reading. The Foundation believes that the time for debate is over. The evidence is clear: the ‘whole-language’ approach, with its reliance on the notion that reading is a natural, unconscious process, falls short of meeting the diverse learning needs of our students.
Instead, we advocate for the widespread adoption of the ‘structured literacy’ approach throughout our education system. Grounded in research and proven effectiveness, structured literacy places a strong emphasis on phonics instruction, decoding skills, and phonemic awareness. By equipping students with the foundational skills to sound out words and decode meaning, structured literacy lays the groundwork for reading success.
However, it is also key to recognise that structured literacy is not merely about phonics; it encompasses a holistic approach to reading instruction. It emphasises vocabulary development, comprehension strategies, and fluency practice, fostering understanding of texts and nurturing a lifelong love for reading. This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only read proficiently but also engage critically with diverse texts across various disciplines.
Grattan argues that, central to its vision for a reading revolution, is the establishment of a ‘Reading Guarantee’ – a six-step commitment to achieving reading proficiency for all Australian students:
- Pledge that at least 90 per cent of Australian students will become proficient readers, setting ambitious yet achievable targets for educational excellence.
- Provide educators with clear guidelines on evidence-based reading instruction, ensuring consistency and effectiveness in teaching practices.
- Equip schools with high-quality curriculum materials and assessments, empowering teachers with the tools they need to deliver effective reading instruction.
- Implement universal screening of students’ reading skills and provide targeted support for those in need, ensuring no child falls through the cracks.
- Invest in teacher professional development and appoint Literacy Instructional Specialists in schools, building educators’ capacity to deliver high-quality reading instruction.
- Mandate a nationally consistent Year 1 Phonics Screening Check and hold schools accountable for their performance in teaching students to read, driving continuous improvement in literacy outcomes.
By implementing evidence-based reading instruction and committing to the Reading Guarantee, significant positive change can be achieved that will benefit generations to come. The Fogarty Foundation supports the findings of the Grattan Institute and welcome the level of public interest in the growing challenge facing our schools and the education sector.
Let’s use this momentum to drive reform, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to unlock their potential through high quality, evidence-based, literacy instruction in West Australia’s schools.
Supported by the Fogarty Foundation
In an initiative which enriches educational experiences, the timeless tale of “The Jungle Book” comes alive in a school’s matinee and pre-show discussion supported by the Fogarty Foundation. This program brings the magic of live theater to students and fosters creativity, diversity, and inclusivity among students, thanks to the Perth Festival’s Creative Learning Program. Which is a catalyst for nurturing a passion for the arts among students and young individuals, allowing them to not only witness the magic of the arts but also to immerse themselves in the creative process.
Recognising the importance of creativity as a future skill, the Fogarty Foundation champions initiatives such as the Creative Learning Program. By funding programs like these there is a broadening access to creative activities, ensuring that a range of students have the opportunity to engage with the arts in meaningful ways.
Through the performance, students are transported into the heart of the jungle through the timeless story of “The Jungle Book”. The immersive experience of live theater not only entertains but also inspires imagination, creativity, and critical thinking among young audiences. To begin the day, a pre-show discussion introduced students to the lead performer sparking engagement with the themes of “The Jungle Book Re-imagined.” The discussion outlined key issues within the show such as climate change and animal welfare. Furthmore, a creative learning resource pack is provided to the students ahead of time. Which guides their minds through the performance, outlines key themes and poses important questions to consider while they watch the performance.
‘Then Man Changed … hunting animals until they were extinct.’
Jungle Book Reimagined
As the narrative unfolds with its twists and turns, viewers are compelled to delve into a critical examination of the post-apocalyptic landscape laid out before them. This is especially evident in the intricate interplay among humanity, the environment, and wildlife presented within the show, where these components seamlessly merge into a cohesive whole. The audience is challenged to reframe the timeless narrative of The Jungle Book, which adopts new thematic dimensions and a more somber undertone. While Mowgli remains at the forefront, her character is led through a series of moral quandaries and moments of self-discovery, prompting viewers to ponder: Are we truly doing enough to safeguard our natural world?
Providing access to creative programs empowers the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders to tackle such questions. Through initiatives like the “Jungle Book Reimagined” Creative Learning Program, a creative spark is set alight for young people, enabling them to think curiously about the world around them.
Look at the full program here!
The Fogarty Foundation’s reflections on Collaborative Impact
The Fogarty Foundation has a longstanding commitment to advancing education and creating opportunities for student success. Recognising the complex challenges within the education sector, the organisation embraces a collaborative approach. By partnering with the State Government, Catholic Education WA and West Australian universities’ Departments of Education, as well as with ‘for purpose’ organisations such as The Smith Family, the Foundation aims to amplify its impact and address systemic issues collectively. By collaborating with like-minded organisations, the Foundation gains access to diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and best practices that enhance its programs.
Collaborative efforts are most effective when organisations share a common vision and work towards mutually beneficial outcomes. Whether promoting literacy, enhancing STEM education, or bridging educational gaps, the Foundation seeks partners committed to the same overarching objectives.
This Community Spotlight explores one way in which the Foundation partners with others to achieve outcomes greater than what could have been achieved alone.
CASE STUDY – THE INVESTMENT DIALOGUE
The Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children (the Investment Dialogue) is a commitment between Government and philanthropic partners to a long-term collaboration to improve the wellbeing of children, young people, and their families, by working with communities to reduce intergenerational disadvantage in Australia. To that end, a ‘Working Together Agreement’ was signed by the Federal Government and 20 philanthropic members of the Investment Dialogue in Canberra on 4 December 2023 (photo shows the Federal Treasurer addressing some of the attendees), outlining shared commitments for the coming years. It also reflects a desire to expand the stakeholders involved including to State Governments, First Nations people and those working on the ground in communities.
This follows certain budget commitments made by Federal Government in May 2023, and the establishment of a cross-agency ‘Tackling Entrenched Disadvantage’ working group housed within Treasury. Philanthropy has agreed to contribute a minimum of $100m over the first four years of the IDAC, $65M of which has already been earmarked in the first year.
The Investment Dialogue will identify and promote investment opportunities in the areas of policy and system level reform; place-based initiatives; and projects, programs and service models. Within 10 years the Investment Dialogue hopes to achieve a measurable reduction in child vulnerability and create lasting conditions to address intergenerational disadvantage.
The Investment Dialogue is convened by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY), supported by a philanthropy taskforce including executives from The Bryan Foundation, Paul Ramsay Foundation, and Ian Potter Foundation. The Fogarty Foundation is one of three WA-based participants together with the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation and Minderoo Foundation. Additionally, a group of WA-based philanthropists and funders have been collaborating since November 2022 to consider the opportunities that the Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children (IDAC) presents for WA. This group is called the Investment Dialogue for WA (IDWA) and has been voluntarily convened by the Fogarty Foundation.
The Fogarty Foundation extends its congratulations to the newly elected members of the Fogarty Scholars Association (FSA) Committee for 2024. We look forward to seeing the contribution they will make in 2024 to the Association and to contributing to the experience of all UWA Fogarty Scholars.
It is particularly pleasing to see the second year Scholars taking on Committee roles, following their contribution to running the Fogarty Futures Conference in 2023. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make in 2024 to the Association and to contributing to the experience of all UWA Fogarty Scholars.
President: Shantelle Jeyakumar (3rd year Integrated Dental Science studies); whose leadership skills and dedication to fostering a strong and inclusive community to date among Fogarty Scholars will contribute significantly to the Association.
Vice President: Mariya Faisal (2nd year, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Public Health studies) will continue to demonstrate her collaborative efforts in enhancing the academic and social experiences of Fogarty Scholars.
Secretary: Sienna Hanikeri (2nd year, Integrated Medical Sciences with Clinical Practice studies) will be able to use her organisational skills and attention to detail, following her contribution to the Fogarty Futures Conference management in 2023.
Treasurer: Josh Peckover (4th year, Politics, Philosophy and Economics studies) will be the financial steward of the FSA, focusing on the Association’s fiscal health and the successful execution of its programs.
Communication Director: Jade Wallwork (2nd year, Communication and Media Studies and Law and Society studies) will continue her focus on ensuring effective communication within the Fogarty Scholars community.
General Representative: Naveen Nimalan’s (3rd year, Automation and Robotics studies) appointment as General Representative demonstrates his commitment to representing the diverse interests and perspectives of Fogarty Scholars. We congratulate Naveen and anticipate that his advocacy will contribute to a vibrant and inclusive community.
Through 2024, the FSA will orchestrate a series of events, workshops, and mentoring initiatives designed to cultivate a sense of community and foster a supportive cohort environment among scholars.
The recent establishment of the Fogarty Foundation’s Scholars Platform, will help enable even better collaborate with the FSA, ensuring that communication flows seamlessly and Scholars enjoy direct access to an array of enriching workshops, events, and opportunities tailored to their needs.
We wish the Committee all the best for 2024 and look forward to working together to enhance the educational journey of our Scholars and support a vibrant and connected Scholar community.
In a landmark event held in Canberra on December 4, 2023, the Investment Dialogue represented a transformative moment in Australia’s philanthropic landscape. This national initiative, dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children, young people, and their families, brought together leaders from philanthropy and the government to forge collaborative pathways toward a brighter future.
A highlight of the Investment Dialogue was the signing of a Working Together Agreement by the Treasurer, the Hon Jim Chalmers MP, and the Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP. This groundbreaking agreement, endorsed by 20 philanthropic organisations, including the Fogarty Foundation, represents a commitment to joint efforts in enhancing the lives of Australia’s youth. It sets the stage for a decade-long dedication to collaborative and philanthropic initiatives, signifying a sustained effort to bring about enduring positive change.
‘We owe it to all Australians, and particularly Australia’s children, to tackle entrenched disadvantage in our communities. The Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children will help in achieving our goal.’ the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, 2023
The Investment Dialogue will include the establishment of Community and First Nations Leadership Councils, a core outcome that promises to support the Dialogue’s decision-making processes. Chaired respectively by Catherine Liddle and April Lawrie, these councils aim to ensure that the lived experiences of communities and First Nations peoples are integral to the Dialogue’s proceedings. An open Expression of Interest process for council members will occur in early 2024, fostering inclusivity and diversity in leadership.
Four strategic Working Groups have emerged from the Investment Dialogue, each with a specific focus on driving positive change:
- Data Working Group (established in early 2024): Prioritising improvements in data practices, including community access to data, this group aims to identify areas for reform, facilitate effective investment decisions, and support community decision-making.
- Place Working Group (established in early 2024): This community-led group focuses on delivering targeted, place-specific solutions and collaborates on ongoing initiatives across government and philanthropy.
- Integration and Investment Flows: This group aims to enhance coherence in local-level investments, supporting the design, funding, and delivery of integrated and holistic services and solutions.
- Evaluation and Learning: Committed to continuous improvement, this group collaborates on evaluating the impact of the Investment Dialogue, ensuring that insights are shared widely.
The Investment Dialogue for Australia’s Children stands as a testament to collaborative philanthropy, embarking on a transformative journey to improve the well-being of the nation’s youth. With a strong foundation laid by the Working Together Agreement, a ten-year commitment, and the establishment of the Leadership Councils and Working Groups, the Dialogue promises to be a catalyst for positive change. As it unfolds, this philanthropic endeavour is poised to shape the future for Australia’s children, fostering a society where collective efforts lead to enduring well-being and prosperity. The subsequent roundtables in 2024 are anticipated to build on these commitments, propelling the Investment Dialogue toward even greater heights of impact and innovation.
The Foundation is proud to be part of this important initiative.
Building on the inaugural Young Entrepreneurs Showcase founded by Student Edge and featured at 2022’s West Tech Fest, 2023 saw an expansion of offerings for Western Australia’s youth.
2023’s West Tech Fest yet again stood as a phenomenal showcase of innovation and also exemplified the power of collaboration. This year, there was a new dimension, West Tech Fest Youth, a collaborative effort between the Fogarty Foundation, Student Edge, Curtin University, BOP Industries, and Purposeful.
The Young Entrepreneurs Showcase provided opportunities for students as young as 12 from a range of WA schools (pictured above) to feature their initiatives and demonstrate what is possible to their peers, whilst also building meaningful connections between educational institutions, industry experts, and other innovators.
During the opening ceremony, Lord Mayor of the City of Perth, Basil Zempilas celebrated the youth aspect of West Tech Fest and expressed excitement at how much the Showcase has grown since 2022.
Other highlights of 2023’s event included an indoor drone show, networking coaching, masterclasses, panels with young entrepreneurs and a range of impressive youth innovation stalls. Both metropolitan and regional schools were in attendance presenting a range of ideas to solve modern day problems. From a new type of toothpaste in plastic free containers to modern phone booths, the showcase shone with young minds’ creativity. A particular hats off to the indomitable Michelle Wong (pictured below with Foundation CEO Megan Enders) for bringing a great contingent from the Peel region thanks to her amazing Hackathon and other connections.
Witnessing the synergy between these entities and the collective brilliance of young minds highlighted the incredible potential in Western Australia’s innovation landscape. West Tech Fest aims to be a beacon for cutting-edge technology and innovative ideas. This year’s event reinforced this reputation as well as presenting a diverse range of innovations spanning various sectors. The collaboration between established industry and emerging innovators showcased the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the tech world.
The unity between the organising bodies emphasises the importance of a multifaceted approach to nurturing innovation. By bringing together educators, students and industry, this collaborative effort aims to provide comprehensive support and guidance to budding entrepreneurs and educators, ensuring a holistic and enriching experience. By leveraging the strengths of each partner, the project expanded and created an ecosystem that encourages the development of young innovators.
Many thanks to the Organising Committee that supported this work – comprising representatives from the Foundation, Curtin University, Student Edge, Bloom, St Hilda’s, BOP Industries and Purposeful – as well as support from two great champions, Minister Stephen Dawson and the Mayor of the City of Perth.
As we say goodbye to 2023 and enter 2024, we look forward to an even bigger and better event next year. Especially now that WA has a newly established Young Entrepreneurs Academy; an exciting new initiative supported by the Malka Foundation ANDthe State Government has announced its ongoing support for West Tech Fest. This impressive addition to the educational landscape will bring youth innovation to the forefront in WA, and we look forward to seeing the results.
Read more about this year’s Youth event program and West Tech Fest here!