Building a platform for success
by Heather Leggett
As the middle of 11 children and with a huge extended family, Jharny Love is used to having a lot of support. Now, the recipient of the 2009 Terry Roberts Scholarship is hoping to give back to the community that has given her so much.
Growing up, people naturally came to Love for advice. It is part of the reason why the 20-year old Bachelor of Nursing student has her eyes set on a career in behavioural science and sees her nursing degree as the ideal platform.
"I am passionate about helping people in Indigenous communities overcome negative behavioural patterns," she says. "Nursing gives me the perfect foundation and is a great pathway into more specialised study in the health field."
Established in 2007 in memory of Terry Roberts, a deceased SA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, the scholarship is given to an Indigenous student who demonstrates a need for support as well as passion for their studies.
As the third annual winner of the scholarship, Love receives up to $8000 over four years to contribute financially towards housing, books and tuition for her education.
Love has overcome some large obstacles to get where she is today. As a young girl, she was party to many of the negative behaviours she now hopes to stamp out. But her community spirit has always been strong.
"Ever since I can remember I have been involved in helping my community," she says.
"I know that if I can make changes, then everyone else has a chance to as well. They simply need the right support."
The dedicated and passionate student is clearly focused on helping others succeed.
"My community is really close knit - everyone is like family," she says. "It’s why it’s hard to see people hurting."
While Love has some ambitious plans for the future, for now she is focused on completing her studies. With passion, support and a strong ambition to succeed, it is clear that Love is set to be a guiding light in her community.
"I can’t wait to make a difference," she says.