Kimberley Girl to be WA ambassador

The Kimberley Girl program has produced many success stories, but perhaps none more notable than last year’s winner, who was recently selected as a State ambassador for an international trip.

Geraiyah Wiggan was one of 12 young WA leaders selected to fly to Hong Kong for the International Youth Exchange Program, which gives delegates the opportunity to develop their understanding of a different culture and make networks for their career goals.

The Djarindjin-born beauty will pack her suitcase and leave the State for the first time in February and said she was proud to be an indigenous representative.

“Coming from a very remote background, there are not many opportunities like this for us back home,” she said.

“I would like to bring hope back to my community and be the inspiration every young person needs.”

Now based in Perth, the 19-year-old works as a technical assistant at a resource and energy organisation, but believes home is where the heart is and wants to make a return to the Kimberley one day.

Ms Wiggan rose to prominence in the region when she took last year’s Kimberley Girl title and she said the program prepared her for this opportunity.

“The program made me reflect on myself in many ways,” she said.

“It has taught me that knowing where you come from is important and I eventually want to return home and help make a change.”

Goolarri Media chief operations officer and Kimberley Girl founder, Kira Fong, said Ms Wiggan is a perfect ambassador for WA.

“Geraiyah displays great leadership and is hard working, dedicated and passionate,” she said.

“She has made the most of every opportunity presented to her and is a deserving recipient of this place in the exchange program.

“We wish her all the best for this exciting journey ahead of her.”

Minister for Youth Peter Tinley congratulated the young leaders on their selection. “I am confident the exchange program will offer experiences and perspectives that can be used to strengthen the foundation of their future education and career goals,” he said.