2022 Project of Mercy

Launched in 2021 by Gemma Varone, Santa Maria College Old Girls’ Association President, the Association and Santa Maria College are once again delighted to offer the ‘Project of Mercy’ grant of up to $5,000.

This grant will enable a Santa Maria College alumni to undertake a planned project, of the applicant’s choosing, with the primary focus of helping others less fortunate within the Western Australian community.

The nature of the grant reflects the philanthropic mission of the Association, in line with Santa Maria College’s Mercy values. It provides an opportunity for the OGA to make a positive impact in the broader community. Any Santa Maria College (Perth, WA) alumni can apply.

2021 recipients, Catherine Kolomyjec (Class of 1986) The Periscope Crew and Ashleigh Small (Class of 2012), Hello Initiative share their experience as recipients of the grant in 2021.

Catherine Kolmyjec

I feel so blessed to be a recipient of the 2021 Project of Mercy Grant. This grant is special because it gives voice to those who may not have a voice. It empowers all of us to create a more inclusive and better world. I am using my Mercy Grant for my charity’s work with The Periscope Crew, a film crew of young people with disabilities. It has been breathtaking watching them develop film stories that allow themselves to truly be seen. And, as a Santa Maria old girl myself, it is particularly rewarding to receive this love from the old girls at the very school that inspired me to work in human rights in the first place.

Gemma Varone, Ashleigh Small, Jennifer Oaten

The Project of Mercy Grant has enabled Hello Initiative to deliver a new program that gives a voice to the vulnerable young people we work with through the Youth Justice Innovation Advisory Council. It has been great to work with Santa Maria and see their commitment to delivering on the Mercy values with their past students beyond the school walls. Thank you so much!

If you wish to apply for the Project of Mercy grant, you must complete the Application Form, upload your curriculum vitae, and any supporting documentation. 

Applications close on Friday 19 August 2022

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