Trishna’s journey to Year 12 at Academy of Mary Immaculate

Fifteen years ago, Trishna’s name was on the lips of a city holding its breath.

She and her twin sister Krishna, conjoined at the head, had travelled from Bangladesh to Melbourne for lifesaving and life-changing surgery – a feat that seemed near-impossible and yet, with the help of a dedicated medical team and their guardian Moira Kelly, became a miracle that captivated the nation.

Today, that same little girl is on the verge of another milestone, one less dramatic but no less remarkable: graduating Year 12 at the Academy of Mary Immaculate in Fitzroy.

It’s a journey that has been defined by courage, resilience and the power of community.

“I remember when I first started in Year 7, just how welcoming the teachers were at Academy and how I felt they knew me straight away,” Trishna said.

“I’m proud of how far I’ve come since then and of my perseverance in becoming independent. I was independent when I started – but not enough. Academy has helped me become stronger and more resilient each day, learning new things and new ways from other people and teachers.”

For the Academy, Trishna’s journey has been one they are deeply honoured to share. “It’s been an incredible journey for Trishna and her family, and we feel privileged to be part of this wonderful story and support Trishna as she embarks on an exciting future,” Principal Sr Mary Moloney said.

That support has been both personal and practical. Food Technology Learning Leader Mara Atkins has taught Trishna since Year 8 and says, “Trishna is a delightful and charming student, who is so considerate of others and has a great sense of humour. She lights up a room and she will go far in whatever she chooses to do. We are so proud of everything she’s become.”

For Trishna, Academy has also been the place where she has carved out her path for the future. Since Year 10, she has been working toward a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. A successful Year 11 placement at Acacia Creche led to a school-based traineeship, giving her paid, on-the-job training while completing her VCE.

“Thanks to Ms Sach, our careers practitioner and Mrs Allan, who coordinated my placement at Acacia Childcare through the School’s Work Experience Program, I was able to get my foot in the door. Acacia has been amazing – I can’t believe I’m now a staff member there! I help supervise the children, maintain the rooms, and now I’m watching and learning every day.”

Her vision for the future also carries the mark of her family’s unique history. Raised by Moira Kelly – renowned humanitarian and founder of the Creating Hope Foundation, which provides vital medical care for disadvantaged children worldwide – Trishna has always lived with a profound sense of purpose.

“I love working in childcare but growing up with my mum and all the children she’s helped with disabilities – especially my sister Krishie – I’d like to help students in need like her. I want to become a teacher’s aide and support individuals with special needs,” Trishna said.

From the operating theatre to the classroom, Trishna’s story is one of perseverance, gratitude and giving back. And as she nears graduation, she carries with her not only the hopes of her family, but the support of a school community that has seen her flourish, and that knows, with certainty, she will continue to light the way for others.