You must work very hard now; later you can do anything – Samallie Kasirye

In the heart of rural communities across Australia, women and non-binary leaders play a crucial role in inspiring younger generations. Their voices, passions and skills have far reaching effects all across the country. Their very existence has been the catalyst for significant inspiration and change. Even just one life being shaped by such positive influence can be truly transformative. One life inspired can create a true generational difference.

My pottery teacher, Samallie Kasirye grew up in a small community in Uganda where there were fewer opportunities for women’s education. For her pottery was not just a passion, it was a way to make a living, a way to contribute to her community. She comes from Kampala from a family of potters. She used her talents along with the incredible support of her community and received a scholarship to study Art at the National College of Arts in Sydney.

Her story is one of diligence and persistence. She channelled her experiences and success into helping her community both in Cairns and Uganda. She established a charity that sponsors local women’s education in Kampala. Her actions resonate deeply with me, proving how one person’s commitment can ignite change so far away. Her dedication to helping others and providing resources for young women to learn and make their own impact on the world has opened my eyes to the effect that even I could have in my own space.

As a teacher, Samallie consistently emphasises the importance of us recognising available resources, an important lesson to learn when living in a rural community. Her guidance has shown me that there are many avenues for growth and change if you are willing to explore them. She inspires me to make the most of the opportunities I have been given and to think about how I can change my own community for the better.

Her approach to teaching is not solely based on pottery but about creating a space for conversation and creation between the women in our community. Her classes are a haven of tradition and unity. I learnt that in Papua New Guinea, women historically crafted clay pots not only as functional items but also as a means of connecting to other women. While making these pots women would talk to one another, a way for them to connect and provide support to each other.

These women are not just classmates but women sharing a journey of personal and communal growth. Hearing their stories and wisdom makes me believe that I can make a difference with the support of these women behind me. The conversations that take place during these sessions are often stories of guidance, empowerment and creative expression. As adolescents our role models play a significant part in shaping our perspectives. By creating a safe space for artistic expression and personal development, as a mentor, Samallie has created an opportunity to help the women around us. Through fostering her students’ talents and enabling confidence in sharing stories she has enabled me to develop my own empathetic leadership. To promote a genuine desire to do good in the world and to contribute meaningfully within it.

The impact of female and non-binary role models and leaders in rural areas anywhere, offers powerful examples of the way these women inspire others to become the best they can be. Through their influence, we are reminded that the path to change begins with recognising and embracing the opportunities we have and using them to help ourselves and those around us.