Naomi Receives the 2025 Shining Lamp Award

Each year, Mercy Education recognises a student from each Mercy School whose everyday actions bring the Mercy values of Compassion, Justice, Respect, Hospitality, Service and Courage to life within their school communities. At Santa Maria College, the 2025 Shining Lamp Award has been proudly awarded to Year 12 student Naomi Karczub.

Naomi is a shining example of Mercy in action. Quietly confident and deeply committed, she lives the Mercy values with authenticity and purpose, making a genuine difference to those around her. Her compassion is evident in the way she supports others, while her strong sense of justice is reflected through her active involvement in the Just Leadership and Seeds of Justice groups.

Reflecting on receiving the award, Naomi shared that “mercy is in the little things, in friendly smiles when passing someone in hallways, supporting causes or values important to us, and choosing the option that is kind.” She went on to say that, as Pope Francis reminds us, this simple form of compassion can make the world “a little less cold” and help others feel “a little less alone”, a sentiment that beautifully captures how Naomi lives out her faith and values each day.

Known for her warmth and inclusivity, Naomi treats everyone with respect and brings a strong sense of hospitality to her role within the College Ministry Team. Her service is generous and wholehearted, from her commitment as an altar minister and Rosary leader to her involvement in initiatives such as the Young Mercies Cook Ups. Naomi’s courage shines through in her values-driven leadership and her willingness to step forward in service of others.

In recognition of her leadership, Naomi was elected Ministry Captain for 2026. Alongside her service to the College, she excels academically and is actively involved in both music and sport. Through her empathy, humility and leadership, Naomi continues to inspire those around her and truly reflects Catherine McAuley’s call to be a “shining lamp, giving light to all around us”.

Congratulations to Naomi on this well-deserved recognition.