Most teenagers spend their high school years trying to fit in. That’s not the case for Tahlya Cutajar, who’s comfortable that her leadership skills stand out.
The 14-year-old was nominated by her school co-ordinator at Braybrook’s Caroline Chisholm Catholic College to take part in last year’s Whitten Project for young leaders.
Delivered in partnership with local government, the Western Bulldogs Football Club project provided 32 years 9 and 10 students with a range of life training and sport experiences to build leadership skills.
“It was a really rewarding experience,” Tahlya says.
“We spent about six months together, getting to know each other and learning about what it really means to be a leader.”
Tahlya says the main thing she learned is that leadership is as much about others as yourself.
“I also learnt you should never give up. If you want to do something, stick to it. Be that person who has the initiative to find a different way.
“I’ve tried to be a good leader in my work as college ambassador and I’m hoping I can help out in this year’s Whitten Project.”
The Whitten Project is a seven-month program of workshops across elite learning environments, including the Western Bulldogs, AFL, Netball Victoria and Melbourne Vixens.
Nominations for this year’s intake close on February 27. Details at www.westernbulldogs.com.au/whittenproject.
