Meet Annika – Our Head Girl for 2025

At Santa Maria College, leadership is about more than just titles – it is about passion, commitment, and the desire to make a difference. 2025 Head Girl Annika exemplifies these values as she embarks on her journey to lead the College with unity, empathy, and a strong sense of community at the forefront. In this blog, we take a closer look at Annika’s vision for 2025, her thoughts on leadership, and the personal qualities that make her a standout role model for her peers.

Building Unity, Empathy, and Community

Annika’s goals for Santa Maria in 2025 are both ambitious and heartwarming. “One of my key aims is to foster unity – not just within year groups but across friendships, leadership teams, and the entire College,” she explains. By working closely with other leaders and listening to the voices of all students, Annika hopes to cultivate an environment where every girl feels connected and supported.

Empathy is also at the core of Annika’s vision. “Empathy creates a positive, inclusive, and safe environment for everyone,” she says. Annika wants to inspire Santa Maria girls to not only look out for each other but also engage with the wider community. Through co-curricular activities, volunteering, and sports, she envisions a culture of kindness and compassion that reaches far beyond the College gates.

Annika’s Leadership Values: Empathy, Diligence, and Humour

When asked about the qualities she believes makes a great leader, Annika highlights empathy, diligence, and humour. “Empathy allows a leader to truly understand others’ experiences and emotions,” she shares. For Annika, listening is about more than hearing words—it’s about understanding and connecting with others on a deeper level.

Diligence is another key quality Annika values. As Head Girl, she believes in working hard, staying organised, and collaborating effectively with her team. “A good work ethic and the ability to focus carefully are essential when you are balancing multiple responsibilities,” she adds.

But leadership isn’t all about seriousness – Annika also values the power of humour. “Laughter brings people together,” she says. “It lightens the mood and helps build connections, which is one of my favourite parts of leadership.”

Creating Stronger Connections Across Year Groups

One of Annika’s biggest goals is to bridge the gap between junior and senior students. Having been at Santa Maria since Year 5, Annika remembers how much she would have benefited from stronger connections with older students. To improve this, she and the Student Leadership Council are working on initiatives like buddy systems, mixed-year activities, and mentoring opportunities. “This will help younger students feel more comfortable while also giving senior girls the chance to connect and take breaks from their busy schedules,” she explains.

Balancing Leadership with School and Life

Being Head Girl comes with its challenges, but Annika is prepared to handle the balancing act. “It’s not easy juggling school, leadership, sport, and personal commitments,” she admits. But by prioritising tasks, understanding when to take breaks, and maintaining a strong work-life balance, she’s confident she can manage it all. “Leaning on others when I need help is something I’m working on this year,” she adds. “Most of all, I want to enjoy the journey and embrace everything as it comes.”

Life Outside School: Food, Friends, and Italian Culture

When Annika isn’t leading the College or hitting the books, she loves spending time with friends and indulging her passion for food – especially pizza and ice cream! Her Italian heritage is a big part of her life, and she enjoys volunteering at the Italian theatre, which she describes as “one big, loud family”. Annika also values time for herself, whether it’s journaling, going for a run, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk.

Annika’s dedication to leadership, community, and empathy shines through in everything she does. With her at the helm, 2025 promises to be a year of connection, growth, and compassion at Santa Maria College. We’re excited to see the positive impact she and her fellow leaders will have on the school and beyond.

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