This year marks five years of the GO Foundation’s presence in Canberra - a milestone that reflects the growing impact of its scholarships and holistic cultural support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the region.
Founded by former Sydney Swans teammates Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin, the GO Foundation was built on a simple principle: when young mob are supported through culturally strong education, whole communities benefit.
For students, families, teachers and Elders involved, the anniversary is a moment to reflect on the growth, pride and connection that has taken root in Canberra schools.
Supporting young mob to thrive
For proud Gumbaynggirr woman and ACT public school teacher Jasmin Hunter, that growth is something she has seen unfold student by student, classroom by classroom.
“I’ve worked in three different schools over the past five years, and all three became GO partner schools,” she says.
“I’ve been there helping students apply, calling families, sitting with scholars at Culture and Connect Days, talking through challenges and celebrating wins. I’ve watched this community grow from the ground up.”
She emphasises that while financial support helps families with uniforms, technology and extracurricular activities, the most powerful part of the program is belonging.
“The biggest support is the community. When a young person becomes a GO Scholar, they’re welcomed into a family," she said.
"They get to meet other young mob, hear from deadly role models, and see themselves reflected in the world. You can’t put a price on that.”
For Jasmin, hearing Adam and Michael share their story with scholars is something she still carries.
“I remember the first time I heard them speak about why they started the GO Foundation. The way they talked about their own education, their families, and the responsibility to lift up the next generation - it stayed with me," she said.
"Every time they speak, they inspire not just the scholars, but us as educators too.
“I’ve learned to be proud of who I am.”
Jasmin Hunter with GO Foundation founders Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin.
“I’m dyslexic, and the scholarship helped me get the tools I needed to learn,” Nat explained.
“In my first year, I bought a pen that reads text out loud. It meant I didn’t have to feel embarrassed or left behind anymore. I could learn in my own way, and that made me feel proud.”
The impact goes far beyond schoolwork.
“The biggest change for me has been confidence. I’ve finally become proud of who I am. I’ve learned that my dyslexia doesn’t limit me. I’m still strong. I’m still smart. I’m still me.”
Nat also values the cultural connection the program provides.
“When we get together, we learn more about culture and where we come from,” she said.
“It makes me feel connected. It makes me feel like I belong somewhere. There’s nothing better than that.”
Celebrating five years of GO on Ngunnawal Country
To celebrate five years of the GO Foundation, scholars gathered in Canberra with founders Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin, marking a milestone in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
“Having scholars come together on Ngunnawal Country every year creates something special,” Jasmin said.
“It honours the history of this place as a meeting ground. It carries forward what our ancestors set in motion thousands of years ago: we learn best when we learn together.”
“GO has strengthened my confidence and resilience.”
Mikayla Helms, a current university scholar and proud GO recipient, says being part of the program has shaped her future.
“The GO Foundation has provided strong financial and social support that’s helped me stay focused on my studies and wellbeing,” Mikayla explained.
GO scholar Mikayla Helms (right) at a GO Cultural Connect Day.
She urges other young people to apply for the scholarship.
“GO is not just financial support, it’s a community that will stand behind you. Be proud of who you are and what you bring. Your story, your culture, and your goals are valuable," she said.
"The GO Foundation recognises that and will help you grow in ways you may not even expect.”
Looking ahead
Both Jasmin and her students want more young people to take up the scholarship.
“Go for it,” Nat said.
“I’ve gained confidence and connection. I’ve learned to be proud.
“This is not just a scholarship,” Jasmin adds. “It’s a community that lifts young mob up.”
Five years in, the GO Foundation’s work is not just continuing - it is deepening.
And the message is clear: when culture leads, our young ones rise.
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