Griffith Business School has once again recognised the exceptional contributions of its students with the annual Co-curricular Awards, celebrating undergraduate and postgraduate students who have gone above and beyond to lead, inspire, and contribute to the community.
Leadership Award
The Leadership Award was shared by two outstanding recipients: O’Keeffe Chan, and Piper Stock. Both students have demonstrated a commitment to leading with purpose, integrity, and initiative, qualities that reflect the heart of Griffith Business School’s values.
O’Keeffe said leadership, to her, is about taking initiative, creating impact, and inspiring others through action. Her achievements have spanned national and university levels, from being named a Top 4 finalist in the ACAA All-Rounder Student Award to spearheading student engagement initiatives through the Griffith University Association of Marketing.
“I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about the title, it’s about how we grow through challenges, collaborate with others, and continue to lead with empathy and purpose.”
O’Keeffe Chan
Piper Stock has consistently sought to lead with responsibility, empathy, and integrity through her mentorship, ambassadorial, and community leadership roles. Her commitment to responsible leadership aligns strongly with Griffith Business School’s vision of advancing innovative and socially responsible business.
She says “these experiences have strengthened my belief that leadership is about service and about creating opportunities for others, supporting their growth, and ensuring their voices are valued.“
Sustainability Award
The Sustainability Award was presented to Tim Shamu for his leadership in establishing Daraja Impact Hub Inc. – a registered not-for-profit empowering the next generation of African leaders through education and mentorship.
“Daraja means bridge in Swahili,” Tim said. “We’re building sustainable pathways that connect young people to education, opportunity, and leadership, ensuring that today’s beneficiaries become tomorrow’s changemakers.”
The Runner Up award went to Candice Polo, for her demonstrated commitment to sustainable business practices and community impact.
Community Service Award
Julia Robertson, received the Community Service Award for her transformative advocacy for students with a disability, both at Griffith and across Queensland’s healthcare sector.
Through her leadership of the Disability Advocacy and Empowerment Society, Julia has championed accessibility and inclusion through policy reform, peer mentorship, and awareness initiatives.
“Community service is not just an extracurricular activity; it’s a calling,” she said. “Every time a student tells me, ‘I didn’t think I belonged here until I met you,’ I’m reminded why I do this work.”
The Runner Up was Ella Toomey, recognised for her creative and community-focused contributions.
BusinessPLUS Award
The BusinessPLUS Award celebrates students who have completed Griffith’s signature professional development program, demonstrating initiative and growth through industry experience, volunteering, and personal reflection.
This year’s awardees were:
- Alia Mihailescu
- Indima Pathirana
- Larraitz Martinez Fernandez
- Sethini Weerasinghe
For Alia Mihailescu, completing the BusinessPLUS program was a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Alia shared. “Through programs like BusinessPLUS, I learned the power of small steps, the confidence that comes from saying yes to new experiences and taking initiative. It completely changed how I see myself and my future.”
The best leaders aren’t the ones who gain power – they’re the ones who empower others.
Alia Mihailescu
Each of these winners exemplifies Griffith Business School’s commitment to fostering leaders who make meaningful impacts in their fields and communities. Congratulations to the 2025 Co-curricular Award winners!
