Sadie is one of our 2018 Leadership Competition winners. You can check out her winning entry here and her bio below.
Describe yourself in 80 words or less.
I’m energetic and passionate about making the most of every opportunity I can. I’m not the most confident of people but I stand up for what I believe in and am not afraid to push myself out of my comfort zone to reach my goals.
How old are you, what grade are you in and what community/town do you live in?
I am 16 years old and I am currently in year 10. I live in southern Tasmania in a small town called Cygnet which has a population of roughly 1,500 people.
Why did you enter Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition?
After reading about this competition and the Power trip to Canberra, I was eager to enter as it sounded like an amazing opportunity. Not only will I be meeting politicians and getting exclusive training in leadership skills, but I will also meet other girls who have the same aspirations as myself and get to listen to their ideas.
What do you hope to get out of the Power Trip to Canberra?
I hope to build confidence in my own ideas as well as gain the motivation and skills to put these ideas into action. I am also excited to hear the ideas and goals of the other girls from around the country.
Who is your role model and why?
I don’t think I could narrow my role model down to one person as I believe that everyday I am inspired my someone new. Someone who has defiantly inspired me is Malala Yousafzai, her incredible resilience and determination to make sure everybody is granted their right to education is truly astounding. My mum is also a huge inspiration to me and the work she does with her group, “Students Against Racism” has shaped the way I see the world.
What’s your favourite thing about living in rural Australia?
I love the community, everybody is friendly and ready to help each other out when someone is in need. I also love the country landscape, there is just something wonderful about being surrounded by nature.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about human and animal rights and making sure that every living thing is treated fairly. I also care about our environment and the fight to ensure a future for our beautiful planet. The harsh reality of what humans are doing to the planet is terrifying, but I am determined to do what I can to make positive change in the world.
What’s your favourite quote?
One of my favourite quotes is, “be the change you wish to see in the world,” which is attributed to Mahatma Gandhi.
What’s your main goal/ambition right now?
My main goal right now is to make my school a happy and safer place where everybody feels they can learn. I want to make school enjoyable for my peers because education is so important and having a good learning environment can make all the difference.
Tell us a couple of things you do to relax/have fun?
To destress and have fun I like to play soccer. I play for Kingborough Lions women’s team where every game and training session is exciting and filled with laughs.
How do people stay in touch with you?
Email: Sadie.buckand9234@gmail.com
Facebook Sadie Buckland