For Patricia Bennetts, education has always been the key to opportunity.

The Wardaman woman, now in her second year of a Bachelor of Primary Education, says her path has long been guided by the belief that learning opens doors.

"To me, education is the foundation for everything; with finding employment, creating strong relationships, access to resources and so many lifelong skills that go beyond academic success," she said.

It's this mindset that led Patricia to become a GO Scholar — a program co-founded by AFL legends Adam Goodes and Michael O'Loughlin alongside long-time friend James Gallichan, dedicated to empowering Indigenous students through education.

Growing up on Kaurna Country in Adelaide, Patricia was inspired to join GO in high school after seeing the positive impact it had on her brother Ethan.

She is certain about the broader value of education.

"I feel as though education can lead into not only closing the academic gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people but also the employment and health gaps by providing resources and opportunities that will support mob in all areas of life," Patricia said.

Her vision of education's impact comes in part from her mother, who worked as an Aboriginal support worker in schools. Patricia fondly recalls helping out as a child.

"I always enjoyed when I would help her with workshops as a kid."

That early exposure to supporting others helped shape her path. In high school, Patricia noticed a gap in cultural connection within the classroom compared to her earlier years.

"I found I studied better when my culture was acknowledged or I could learn more about Aboriginal history," she said. "So, I hope I can support other Indigenous students in feeling more connected during their schooling."

As such, she is clear in her belief that culture and education are inseparable.

"Culture is what connects all Aboriginal people; it gives us a purpose and allows us to create connections to Western lifestyles.

"Having culture in education would not only engage Indigenous students to lead them in success but also create a more reconciled environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in order to feel acknowledged and welcomed in the space they spend most of their time."

Patricia's journey is just beginning, but her passion is already clear: to ensure future generations of Aboriginal students feel supported, connected, and proud in their learning environments.

With education and culture side by side, she believes there's no limit to what can be achieved.