Proud Ghungalu and Wulli Wulli woman Bree-Anna Saltner is studying a Bachelor of Social Work at CQUniversity and is focused on supporting Indigenous youth in regional Queensland.
She was recently recognised with a 2025 Gladstone NAIDOC Award in the Education category, acknowledging individuals making an impact in Indigenous education.
Ms Saltner said her upbringing and the guidance of strong family role models shaped her desire to help others and build community.
"My passion for social work stems from my personal experiences and having positive family role models that taught me about the sense of community and helping others," she said.
"I want to be that support for others who might not know where to turn."
Her connection to CQUniversity began during her time as a Program Manager with the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME), which partnered with the university to host Program Days on campus.
"I spent time on the CQU Gladstone campus through my work with AIME, and I always felt welcome there. The staff were supportive, the energy was positive, and I knew it was the right environment for me to pursue my degree," she said.
"The CQU Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Program, alongside my tutor Jennifer Perry, have been especially instrumental. Connecting with others in my course has also helped me push through."
She received a CQUniCares CQID Vocational Education and Training Scholarship in her first year, followed by Dare2BeDeadly scholarships, which provided crucial financial support during placement periods.
As she prepares for her final placement, Ms Saltner said she plans to focus on youth social and emotional wellbeing.
"I'm committed to helping people in my community, particularly by working with young people, to build social and emotional wellbeing skills," she said.
"My goal is to help them unlock their full potential and create lasting, positive change."
Ms Saltner said the Gladstone NAIDOC Award was a pleasant surprise.
"I didn't even know I'd been nominated! It is such an honour... it feels good to know that people can already see the value in the work I've been doing," she said.
"The work I've done has always been a team effort. None of this is done in isolation.
"One of the most rewarding parts has been working in high schools, teaching students about the true history of Australia, about identity, and giving them tools for emotional resilience.
"It's all about authenticity, truth telling, and creating safe spaces where young people feel heard. That's how we start to see real change."
