Recently, Year 10 student and Shrine of Remembrance Young Ambassador Scarlett T worked alongside fellow Shrine Young Ambassadors and Artist-in-Residence Iluka Sax-Williams as part of the 2026 Young Ambassador Program. A reflection on her experience is below.

Student Reflection

In December of 2025 I applied to be a Shrine Young Ambassador through a few questions regarding what remembrance meant to me. I was eager to learn about the opportunities to embark on a journey of remembrance including an interstate trip to the ACT, and Anzac Day services where the group handed out poppies.

Throughout my time as a Young Ambassador, I have learned many things about remembrance and how every story heard can change an entire perspective. I have met many new people, all of whom are enthusiastic about learning and eager for a challenge. The group of Ambassadors are from schools all over Victoria, ranging from Star of the Sea to Sienna College and some also coming from other fellow Kildare Ministries schools.  

Recently, we were given four days to undertake a task exploring the connection between remembrance and First Nations people who have served across the Australian Defence Force, working in collaboration with Artist in Residence, Iluka Sax-Williams.

An entire day at the beginning of the project was devoted to understanding the history of indigenous Australia, where we learned so much about the history of First Nations people on the front lines to put to use in our planning of the next day. We began with breaking up the piece into three sections – Sky, Land and Sea (respectively Wara, Bik and Baan) and linking these sections to the air force, army and navy. 

Whilst learning about the war, the inequality struck me and made this project even more special; it was about giving recognition of sacrifice, as well as highlighting protection of a country that was not owned but part of a family. Learning pyrography (the burning of wood) was a challenge quickly overcome by teamwork and encouragement from the entire group. Overall, the experience was one I will never forget, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it all. 

Scarlett T

Year 10

Sonya Hood

Teacher: Art