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From disaster to distinction: one Indigenous woman’s education journey

Carmel Debel can remember the time her mother tried to enrol her and her brothers in the local primary school.
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An inspiring story; a great read for all educators.
School staff just have to be there for every child to support and affirm them on their way.
I just hope that the sorts of things that happened to Carmel wanting to get into school and going through school are happening less and less for First Nation and for all children.
Congratulations Carmel, Such an inspiring story for all educators. I’m so glad that your confidence in education has been restored and expanded. You will be an extraordinary teacher who will impact your students and colleagues in any setting. Blessings for your work and a long and purposeful career.
What a perfect snap shot of a youth transforming into a life long inspired learner. That truly encapsulates the purpose of a teacher, to bring light and knowing where there is little. You are an absolute rock star.
Congratulations Carmel. I am very honoured that you have shared your story in this article and proud to say that I work alongside you. Your openness and approachability with teachers and staff is having a significant impact towards our goals of not only embedding First Nations Perspectives into our schools, but also in ensuring that the young people that we educate are able to excel. Let us pray and hope that all schools remember to treat all students with dignity, respect and welcome them with open arms.
A very inspiring and heart warming story.
I am glad you never gave up. It would have been such a huge loss for our education system if you had taken the easy way out. You are a great example to all those disengaged students.
I wish you a long and very fulfilling career.
Well done Carmel!