What are the Trailblazer Awards?
The Trailblazer Awards celebrates Year 11 and Year 12 students beyond their ATAR, recognising those who have overcome personal challenges and used their final year of school to positively impact their community.
Our Trailblazers will have the opportunity to build their personal brand and profile as a future leader, learn how to successfully apply for Early Entry, Scholarships, Co-Op, and Cadetships Opportunities, and so much more!
Find out how Sarah Akhtar navigated her senior schooling differently throughout 2023!
Introducing: Sarah Akhtar
Category: Business & Entrepreneurship
School: Presbyterian Ladies College, Doncaster East
State: VIC
Career Aspiration: Working in the commerce field while owning a small business
Achievements
- Shortlisted finalist for the ‘Alliance Francaise- Berthe Mouchette’ French speaking competition
- Established a small online business specialising in branded manchester and homewares, generating approximately $11,000 in sales
- Built a loyal customer base and aims to expand product offerings and establish a small warehouse after graduation
- Active volunteer for the St John Ambulance service, dedicating 2 hours per week to acquire and enhance basic first aid skills
What makes Sarah a Trailblazer?
Sarah is a remarkable Trailblazer with a passion for business and entrepreneurship. She has demonstrated exceptional skills and achievements that set her apart as a young leader in her field.
Sarah’s entrepreneurial journey began during the lockdown period when she established a small online business specialising in branded manchester and homewares. With dedication and hard work, she has generated approximately $11,000 in sales, building a loyal customer base that includes both casual and repeat customers. Sarah’s commitment to financial literacy and entrepreneurship has empowered her to achieve financial independence, a vital skill for young women in today’s world. She envisions expanding her product offerings and establishing a small warehouse after graduating from school, demonstrating her ambition and strategic thinking.
In addition to her business endeavours, Sarah has been an active volunteer for the St John Ambulance service since 2019. She devotes two hours of her time every week to acquire and enhance her basic first aid skills, demonstrating her passion for giving back to the community. Through her volunteer work, Sarah has developed effective communication skills, particularly in high-stress situations where clear and compassionate communication is essential. This valuable skill will undoubtedly contribute to her success in future endeavours, allowing her to connect with others, understand their needs, and collaborate effectively in personal and professional settings.
Sarah has faced challenges in juggling her academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities due to family dynamics. As the eldest among her four siblings, she has had to make decisions about which activities to participate in, which has required careful time management and prioritisation. Despite these challenges, Sarah has demonstrated resilience and determination, excelling in her studies and actively engaging in extracurricular activities.
Sarah’s remarkable achievements extend beyond her entrepreneurial and volunteer work. She has held positions of leadership and responsibility throughout her school journey, including being a class captain on multiple occasions, a member of the school representative council, and a house captain. Furthermore, she has participated in the committee for social change at school, showcasing her commitment to making a positive impact in her school community.
With her passion for business, entrepreneurship, and her dedication to giving back through volunteer work, Sarah is a true Trailblazer. Her ability to establish a successful online business while still in school highlights her drive, resourcefulness, and business acumen. Sarah’s commitment to financial independence and effective communication skills positions her for success in her future career in the commerce field. With her leadership qualities and determination to make a difference, Sarah Akhtar is undoubtedly a role model for aspiring young entrepreneurs and business professionals.
Sarah Akhtar rightfully earns her place among our Top 50 Trailblazers!
The Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards
The Trailblazer Awards aim to identify and celebrate students who use their final years of school to invest holistically in the skills and experiences that will maximise their own future opportunities and make a contribution to the future of our society.
Our winners for the Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazer Awards have demonstrated initiative in volunteering for their school or community, have participated in co-curricular activities, and have held leadership positions within their schools.
Learn more about who placed in the Top 50 Year 11 and Year 12 Trailblazers here!
About Art of Smart Education
At Art of Smart Education, we’re an award-winning provider of holistic tutoring and mentoring for students in years K-12. Our mission is to help students answer the difficult question, “What am I going to do with my life when I finish school, and how do I get there?”
We understand that true success involves mastering study, career and leadership skills while maintaining your wellbeing, not just excelling in academics and as a result, over the last decade, we’ve supported over 10,000 students to achieve their best and maximise their options for life after school.
Each year over one million young Australians, parents, and teachers access our guides, videos and resources to navigate the journey through high school.
