Opportunity to me is a chance at a better future. To have the opportunity to go from a small country town as a young indigenous student, coming from a low socioeconomic background, to one of the most prestigious schools in Perth meant that I have a better chance at making a better future for my family and myself. Opportunity is like a second chance, where you get to wipe the board clean and choose your own destiny.
Jiah Reidy (‘16)

  • 2012 – 2016
  • BSc Sport Science, Exercise and Health UWA

Jiah came to Aquinas in Year 8 after receiving a MADALAH (Making a Difference and Leading Ahead) Scholarship and grabbed the opportunity with both hands. The first person in his family to attend the College, Jiah immediately excelled in the sporting arena, representing the College in 1st XVIII Football and 1st V Basketball. Throughout his time at Aquinas, Jiah’s leadership qualities rivalled his sporting prowess. In Year 12, he became the first indigenous Captain of Boarding, was elected Athletics Captain and was the worthy recipient of the Ray Brown Medal for Outstanding Leadership in the Boarding Community. He is the first person in his family to graduate High School.

Since graduating from Aquinas in 2016, Jiah has divided his time between studying and playing football, debuting for the Swan Districts league team in Round 2 of the 2018 season. During this time, he has also volunteered in a mentoring program through Swan Districts for at-risk youths, taking part in campouts or simply having a kick with some young kids. In early January 2021, following graduation from UWA, Jiah commenced full-time employment as a Graduate (General Corporate Stream) with the Department of Health.