Scholarship for First Nations law student

A student from the University of Adelaide’s Adelaide Law School has received a scholarship from one of the legal community’s peak bodies to help her finish her studies.

Final year student Mikeyli Hendry has received the inaugural First Nations Scholarship from the Australian Academy of Law (AAL). The AAL selection panel awarded Mikeyli the $5000 scholarship after they interviewed nine Indigenous applicants.

“This scholarship from the Australian Academy of Law means so much for me. Not only will it give me the financial freedom to concentrate fully on my studies and afford the textbooks and support I need for my final year, but it will also help me afford to get back to Alice Springs to visit my family and maintain connections with my community,” said Ms Hendry.

“The last year of a law degree can be particularly arduous and this scholarship will provide some extra assistance to Mikeyli to fulfil her aspiration to pursue a career in law, and help her community.”Professor Melissa de Zwart

Applicants are judged on their academic ability, likelihood of success and chosen career path and must demonstrate that they are not normally in receipt of any other substantial scholarship or award.

The scholarship is for one year and includes the opportunity to have a mentor.

Mikeyli was nominated by the Dean of the Adelaide Law School Professor Melissa de Zwart. Only one student may be nominated by the Dean.

“I congratulate Mikeyli for being successful in her application for this prestigious scholarship. I was happy to nominate such a promising student,” said Professor de Zwart.

“The last year of a law degree can be particularly arduous and this scholarship will provide some extra assistance to Mikeyli to fulfil her aspiration to pursue a career in law, and help her community.”

A proud Arrernte woman from Alice Springs, 23-year-old Mikeyli is studying a double degree in Arts and Law. She is determined to practise law when she graduates.

“I have had a keen interest in the law since I was young and now want to concentrate on criminal law, human rights law and family law,” said Ms Hendry.

“My ultimate goal is to return to my community and to use my legal skills to help First Nations Peoples.”

The AAL comprises elected individuals of exceptional distinction in the discipline of law who are committed to the advancement of that discipline and to justice according to law in Australia. It promotes the highest standards of legal scholarship and research, of legal education and practice, and of the administration of justice.