January 26 is a day of reflection, resilience and survival for First Nations peoples seen and felt in many meaningful ways.
Today, the Goodes O’Loughlin Foundation (GO) has released its latest Impact Report, celebrating the remarkable students and young people they support.
It is a day to recognise Black excellence and the enduring strength of culture.
From its beginnings in 2009 when Adam Goodes, Blood Legend, and Michael O’Loughlin, Bloods Champion, set out to give back to community, GO has evolved to the strong organisation it is today - empowering children and young people through education.
GO has awarded a total of 1900 scholarships. This year over 700 students will receive a GO scholarship.
As they share in this year’s report, Adam and Michael still remember their first coaches telling them, ‘If it is to be, it is up to me’. Both have said that simple line stayed with them through life – back when they were on the field, playing for the red & white and more recently it has spurred them on as they’ve worked to build up the Foundation.
Adam and Michael are proud to share stories of student dedication and achievement, alongside the ongoing efforts of the Indigenous-led Board and GO team. This work is made possible through the generosity of countless supporters, including those connected to the Sydney Swans, who have walked alongside GO’s students every step of the way.
Over the past year, GO has continued to reach new heights. Scholarships for young women and girls exceeded the strategic goal of 60%, with 62% awarded; tertiary pathways for Scholars and Alumni have been strengthened; and programs including Year 5 and 6 Leadership Days, Alumni Events, Culture Connect Days and Sydney’s first-ever Careers Experience Day have deepened connections with young mob across Canberra, Adelaide and Sydney.
Together, these achievements reflect not only a year of progress but a continuing journey of support, connection and opportunity – one that honours the vision of Adam and Michael and shares the inspiring stories of students pursuing their dreams.
