Territorians breaking into new fields of study and work are being supported through the Northern Territory Government's 2025 Minister for Equality Scholarships, with $68,600 awarded across nine recipients.
Delivered in partnership with Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the Office of Gender Equity and Diversity within the Department of People, Sport and Culture, the scholarships provide between $5,000 and $15,000 to support students in vocational education and training (VET) or higher education at CDU or the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education.
The program is designed to break down gender barriers in traditionally male- or female-dominated professions.
Among this year's recipients is Georgie Van Der Staay, awarded a $5,000 TAFE Scholarship for Women in Non-Traditional Trades. Georgie is studying a Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety while working as a WHS Auditor with Top End Safety Solutions.
Another scholarship recipient, Yiting Wang, is studying a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Originally from China, Yiting transitioned from a career as a violinist and computer scientist to pursue her passion for nurturing young children. Her vision is to bring classical music into early learning environments across the NT, creating rich emotional and cultural experiences for children.
Mike Nghiem, an international student based in Alice Springs, received a $15,000 Higher Education Scholarship. Studying a Master of Teaching (Secondary), Mike has juggled multiple jobs and community volunteering while supporting family overseas. He plans to teach in remote NT communities and apply inclusive education practices to strengthen outcomes for diverse learners in regional and remote schools.
Jahlita Hoffman, a proud First Nations woman from Katherine, also received a Higher Education Scholarship. Studying a Bachelor of Midwifery, Jahlita was inspired to pursue her career after receiving exceptional care during the birth of her daughter at Katherine Hospital. She is determined to give back by providing culturally safe and compassionate maternity care in her hometown.
Department of People, Sport and Culture CEO Samantha Livesley said the scholarships are about unlocking potential and backing Territorians to succeed.
"Whether it's a woman leading in workplace safety or a First Nations student training to become a midwife in her home community, we're supporting people who are breaking new ground and building a more equal Northern Territory."
Now in its 24th year, the Minister for Equality Scholarships program reduces social, cultural and financial barriers to education while increasing gender equity in study and employment pathways. Since 2022, the program has expanded to support men in underrepresented fields, complementing its long-standing support for women in trades, STEM and leadership.
