In partnership with First Nations Foundation, First Nations Economics has announced Angelina Hickey and Hayley Shadforth as the recipients of the 2025 Leah Armstrong Scholarship.
Created to strengthen representation and leadership among First Nations women in finance, governance and economic development, the scholarship also aims to further drive First Nations economic prosperity and meaningful community outcomes.
Ambassador Leah Armstrong highlighted the transformational nature of the scholarship program, sharing just how the program assists in promoting and driving positive change.
"The Leah Armstrong Scholarship is a powerful enabler of change. Investing in First Nations women opens doors for community-prosperity, resilience and economic self-determination," she said.
Eager to engage in this opportunity, both Ms Hickey and Ms Shadforth are grateful to have been selected as scholarship recipients.
A proud Dunghutti woman, Ms Hickey is pursuing a Master of Commerce at RMIT University in Melbourne. She is dedicated to becoming a professional accountant, contributing directly to First Nations economic empowerment by enhancing financial literacy, independence and resilience within First Nations communities.
Ms Shadforth - a Bardi and Nyikina woman from Kimberly, Western Australia - is studying for a Bacehlor of Commerce at the University of Western Australia; aiming to apply her knowledge by establishing strong support systems for Aboriginal-led businesses in Broome, fostering economic self-determination and community sustainability.
Acting chief executive officer of First Nations Foundation (FNF) Emma McCashney and managing director of First Nations Economics (FNE) Rick Macourt shared their congratulations to the recipients, further touching on how the scholarship aims to further assist both women.
"This scholarship is critical for creating long-term economic and social empowerment. It equips First Nations women with the education and resources required to lead transformative change within their communities," said Ms McCashney.
"Supporting Angelina and Hayley underlines our commitment to developing future leaders who will drive sustainable economic development, inspire systematic change and enhance community economic outcomes across Australia," said Mr Macourt.
The Leah Armstrong Scholarship provides significant financial support, mentoring and networking opportunities, enabling recipients to excel academically and become influential leaders driving sustainable economic growth in First Nations communities nationwide.
Left to right, Shaun Cumming, Director FNE, Elaine Jolliffe, Manager Partnerships and Public Relations FNE, Lucy Garner, Graduate FNE, Emma Downard, 2024 LAS Scholar, Hayley Shadforth, Leah Armstrong, Angelina Hickey, Stella De Cos, Director, Community & Customer Experience, Indigenous Business Australia, Leanne Coventry, Manager Community Impact FNE and Associate Professor Rick Macourt, Managing Director FNE. (Image: supplied)
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