Marking more than a decade-long partnership to empower Indigenous students through education, the Goodes O’Loughlin (GO) Foundation has announced Governor-General of Australia, Samantha Mostyn AC, as its patron.
The GO Foundation is an Indigenous education not-for-profit, which provides wrap-around education scholarships to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people at school and university – and in 2024, GO marked 15 years in operation.
Governor-General Mostyn has made an enormous contribution to the GO Foundation over the years, having been a Board member from 2013 until 2023, and providing advice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people at GO’s graduation ceremonies and events.
GO’s CEO and Birpai and Gadigal woman, Ms Charlene Davison, expressed gratitude for the Governor-General’s patronage, recognising the importance this has for the organisation.
“For more than a decade, Governor-General Mostyn has demonstrated such a deep passion and commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, to GO’s mission of empowering through education, and to building the next generation of strong Indigenous leaders.”
“I am delighted to welcome Governor-General Mostyn as GO’s patron, because I know this is so much more than just a symbolic role. This reflects Governor-General Mostyn’s commitment to our organisation, as we work to create students who are absolutely comfortable and confident in their own skin, just as they are, and accepted as they are, in all aspects of their life,” Ms Davison said.
With considerable advisory experience in equity and social justice, the Governor-General has long supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights and reconciliation in Australia.
With her expertise, influence and support, Governor-General Mostyn will strengthen GO’s incredible work in championing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
Ms Mostyn said she is looking forward to celebrating, recognising, and raising awareness of GO’s extraordinary work.
“GO is grounded in culture and opportunity. It opens the door for Indigenous young people to grow strong in culture and identity, and to build a future through the power of education,” she said.
“GO’s model of Indigenous governance and management is unique, powerful, and successful – reflected in the pathways established for hundreds of scholars to date.”
About the GO Foundation
The GO Foundation is a non-profit Indigenous organisation that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to unlock the power of their identity and culture while at school and university. GO’s holistic scholarships provide not only financial assistance but also cultural and aspirational support and access to jobs, internships, work experience and career information sessions. This wrap-around approach ensures that GO students are motivated to dream big – and go for it.
For more information about the GO Foundation and its programs, visit www.gofoundation.org.au.
