Tirkapena Indigenous Award
The Tirkapena Indigenous Award recognises an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander alum whose significant achievements have impacted their profession and/or community.
"Tirkapena” meaning “a person inclined to learn, understand, know, perceive" in Kaurna language.
The Kaurna People are the original custodians of the Adelaide plains on which the University of Adelaide's three campuses are built: Adelaide, Waite and Roseworthy.
Nominations for the 2025 Tirkapena Indigenous Award will be open from 14 May to 10 July 2025. For further information please contact the Alumni Relations team at alumni@adelaide.edu.au, +61 8 8313 5800.
Tirkapena Indigenous Award Recipient 2024
Talisha King
Talisha King is a Gurindji, Mudburra and Waanyi woman and a public health advocate working to improve the lives of indigenous peoples through health and reconciliation. She received a Tirkapena Indigenous Award at the Distinguished Alumni Awards in November 2024.
Read more about Talisha King-
2023 Recipient Lesley Salem AM
Lesley Salem AM - Graduate Certificate in Nursing Science (Aph) 2002, Master in Nursing Science 2008
A Wonnarua woman, artist, author, and nurse practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in remote and rural nursing. In recognition of her service to nursing practice and her dedication to improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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2022 Recipient Tiahni Adamson
Recipient of the Tirkapena Indigenous Award 2022, Tiahni Adamson, a Torres Strait Islander woman descended from the Kaurareg Nations of Thursday Island, is a passionate wildlife conservation biologist. Ms Adamson is focused on sustainable aquaculture production as the Lead Community Engagement Officer at CH4Global.
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2021 Recipient Dr Jared Thomas
Dr Jared Thomas, a Nukunu man from the Southern Flinders Ranges, is a curator, arts administrator, international award-winning author and change maker.
Read more -
2019 Recipient Dr Claudia Paul
Dr Claudia Paul, a Wiradjuri woman from Broken Hill, has achieved a lot in her 26 years, but her goals are even more impressive.
Read more -
2017 Recipient Dr Kali Hayward
Dr Kali Hayward - Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (2005)
A general practitioner for an Aboriginal medical service, a medical educator and the President of the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association. In recognition of her achievements since graduation through which she has become a leader in the community.
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Past recipients list
Further information
For more information about the Tirkapena Indigenous Award, please see the Distinguished Alumni Awards Rules or contact the Alumni Relations team at alumni@adelaide.edu.au or +61 8 8313 5800.