When Mina Mayahi was named 2024 St James College Dux at the Annual Presentation Evening, Principal Rebgetz spoke about how incredibly proud she is of Mina’s achievements, later sharing Mina’s journey in a written piece to the community.

Mina’s Inspiring Journey to 2024 St James College Dux

“Mina Mayahi escaped from her home country Iran with her family at the age of five. The family tried to come to Australia via boat but ended up in a detention camp on Christmas Island for seven months and then were transferred to Nauru for six years.
Mina showed her determination in attending school in Nauru nearly every day despite being threatened or feeling unsafe on many occasions due to the local political situation.

The family arrived in Australia at the end of 2018. Mina and her brother Medhi joined us at St James in 2023, so over the last two years Mina has had great support, but also showing consistent determination to achieve her best. Her dream is to become a doctor and study medicine and after all she endured in her early years, it is an absolute credit to her and her family that she achieved the most emeritus award of Dux of St James College.

This is an amazing achievement. Mina has fought hard for her education, and we are so incredibly proud of her dedication, resilience, and tenacity. She is planning on further study next year at university. Mina is an outstanding role model for all of our students, and we know she has a bright future ahead of her.

Due to Mina’s situation, she is not entitled to a HECS loan to cover university fees. If you would like to support Mina in her University pathway, please click on the link below and select The Faithful Friends Fund, gifts over $2 are tax-deductible. https://catholicfoundation.org...”

Principal Ann Rebgetz