Victorian Bar Student Achievement Award

Congratulations to our very own Sofia Mohamed Rizal who was one of only 17 students across Hume City Council to receive the prestigious Victorian Bar Student Achievement Award!

This is a youth recognition award for academic achievement in Legal Studies, sponsored by the Victorian Bar Foundation and Hume City Council. The award is open to secondary schools in Hume and provides a grant to the highest achiever in Legal Studies Units 1 & 2 who is enrolled in Legal Studies Units 3 & 4 in the year the prize is awarded.

The event was held at the Owen Dixon Chambers in inner city Melbourne, nestled amongst the County and Supreme Court. The foyer walls were covered with portraits of esteemed members of the judiciary, as a testament to their dedication to upholding justice in Victoria.

The room was also peppered with various members of the judiciary, all of which were actively seeking opportunities to speak with the students in the room. As such, Sofia got to mingle with barristers who spoke to about their journey and provided invaluable advice. They also showed a genuine willingness to continue to network with Sofia moving forward, helping to guide her along her own path, should she take up a career in law.

Aside from seeing Sofia beaming with happiness and gratitude when she received her award, it was particularly motivating to listen to the speakers on the night. We heard from a Supreme Court justice, the mayor of Hume City Council and a justice of the Hight Court of Australia, the Hon. Justice Michelle Gordon. Justice Gordon, who is one of only seven justices of the High Court, spoke about her experiences as a justice, whilst also being a wife and a mother. She was truly inspiring.

Sofia said that  ‘attending the award ceremony was a really exciting experience that has encouraged [her] to pursue a possible career in law. [She] had the privilege of speaking with accomplished barristers and legal professionals who shared their inspiring stories from humble beginnings, as well as the Hon. Justice Michelle Gordon of the High Court. Everyone was so warm and down to earth, and [she] is so grateful for having had the opportunity to learn about different areas of law and make connections with other aspiring students. It was such a surreal and unforgettable experience!’