BP Australia is partnering with UniSport to present the 2019 Indigenous Nationals, hosted by the University of Western Australia, Perth, on June 23-28, 2019.
Aboriginal and Torres-Strait Islander students from around Australia will compete in four sports, including touch football, netball, basketball and volleyball. There will also be a dedicated day for traditional indigenous sports, BP Australia says.
Two $5,000 scholarships
The company will present two $5,000 scholarships to the most promising indigenous student-athletes (male and female). The purpose of the scholarships is twofold – to support academic and athletic endeavours. Scholarship recipients will also get mentoring and the chance for professional development.
BP Australia President Andy Holmes said: “The 2019 Indigenous Nationals celebrates indigenous culture and sporting achievement. It’s an exciting example of how we’re delivering our Reconciliation Action Plan.
“This partnership allows us to connect with indigenous students and share our commitment to building our indigenous workforce by offering diverse employment opportunities across Australia.”
BP launched its third Reconciliation Action Plan in October 2018. It sets four focus areas to build on the progress already made. These include:
- Encouraging cultural respect
- Strengthening partnerships
- Unlocking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent; and
- Leading innovation.
‘Competitive edge’
UniSport CEO Mark Sinderberry warmly welcomed BP’s involvement.
“We’re delighted that BP has partnered with us to support the Indigenous Nationals,” he said. “BP has recognised the link between participation in sport and graduate employability. The BP scholarships offer another pathway for indigenous students to gain a competitive edge in the workforce.”
About the Indigenous Nationals
The Indigenous Nationals was founded in 1996 at the Wollotuka Institute at The University of Newcastle, NSW, and has grown from 13 to more than 300 participants. They create a great environment not only to celebrate the rich sporting culture of Indigenous Australia, but also to acknowledge the heritage and history of the participating student-athletes.
