Reading time: 1 minute
Eytahnyia Scott, Jaru woman, adopted by the Yolngu people, has been awarded the 2026 Indigenous Leader Award from the Council of Australasian University Librarians (CAUL). The award recognises Eytahnyia’s significant contributions as an Indigenous Learning Advisor in transforming the way the Library engages with and supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff.
In two short years, among many other initiatives, Eytahnyia led the broader Library team to:
- Create a dedicated and culturally safe space for the Indigenous community in the Library. Whadjuk Malayin Mia opened in 2024. It features Indigenous artwork and objects, comfortable furniture and supports connection between Indigenous students.
- Recruit two Indigenous Peer Academic Mentors to provide tailored support to Indigenous students. The mentors are high-achieving current students offering academic guidance and help navigating university life.
- Launch the Indigenous All Stars Conference for Higher Degree by Research students. The conference, a collaboration with Curtin’s Research Office was first offered in 2024 and has become an annual event. One attendee noted that it was a “Deadly event bringing together Black Excellence and showcasing research that supports self-determination, data sovereignty and the rights of Indigenous people to create new knowledge whilst elevating Indigenous stories and strengths-based narratives.”
Eytahnyia’s leadership has enabled far greater and more meaningful engagement between the Library and Curtin’s Indigenous community. The Library is better equipped to provide targeted support, and with Eytahnyia’s guidance, feels more confident in doing so. The number of Indigenous students engaging with library events and programs has increased substantially, as have collaborations with Indigenous staff. Eytahnyia is at the centre of these achievements. Congratulations, Eytahnyia, on this well-deserved award!
Written by Claire Murphy, Deputy Director of Learning and Library Experience
