Interview with 2025 John Koowarta Scholarship Winner, Ms Christine Conn
What does it mean to you to be awarded the 2025 John Koowarta Scholarship?
Being awarded the 2025 John Koowarta Scholarship is an immense honour.
I know the calibre of my peers is outstanding, and I feel privileged to be considered for this scholarship among them. There have also been some remarkable past recipients of this scholarship, a few of whom I have had the pleasure of getting to know personally, and it is truly humbling to be counted among them.
This scholarship means a great deal to me personally, but it also holds significant meaning for my family and the communities I come from. John Koowarta is a powerful and fitting namesake for this scholarship. His legacy, and the scholarship itself, represent the overcoming of adversity, the commitment to facing challenges head-on, and the embodiment of Blak Excellence. To be associated with these values is not only a tremendous honour, but a responsibility I carry with pride.
What areas of law are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about, and wish to work in, the litigious areas of law. I find the process of navigating complex legal disputes both intellectually challenging and rewarding. Within litigation, I have developed a particular interest in criminal law, which I am currently pursuing through my work at a criminal law firm. This experience has deepened my understanding of the intricacies of criminal cases and the significant impact they have on individuals and communities. Additionally, I also enjoy commercial litigation, where I feel I can draw on both my accounting knowledge from my business degree and my legal knowledge. I find the process of resolving business disputes and interpreting legal frameworks intriguing.
What career aspirations do you have after graduation?
After graduating in mid-2026, I hope to become an Associate to a District Court or Supreme Court judge. I am excited to spend a year learning more about court processes by sitting directly within it. After this, I look forward to commencing a career within the litigious areas of law. While I have no plans currently for further studies or a career at the Bar, I welcome any opportunity and look forward to whatever my future within the law looks like.
Who is one person that inspires you and why?
I am greatly inspired by a past recipient of this scholarship, His Honour Judge Nathan Jarro. As Queensland's first Indigenous judge, Judge Jarro’s achievements are not only groundbreaking but deeply inspiring. The journey to the District Court of Queensland reflects not only what I am sure was immense personal perseverance, but also, marks a significant step forward for Indigenous representation in the legal profession. Judge Jarro’s background resonates with me, as His Honour completed the same dual degree at QUT that I am now pursuing.
Judge Jarro’s success proves that it is possible to overcome the many challenges Indigenous peoples face in this profession. What stands out even more is Judge Jarro’s humility and kindness. His Honour is generous with time and is always willing to support younger Indigenous law students. Judge Jarro gives back to the community in meaningful ways, showing that true leadership is about lifting others as you climb. Judge Jarro’s achievements and dedication to supporting Indigenous law students are incredibly motivating as I continue my own journey through law.
From your perspective, what are some of the key legal issues and challenges the legal profession needs to focus on?
In my view, two key legal issues the profession needs to focus on are improving access to justice in regional and rural areas, and addressing the disconnect between the legal system and the communities it serves. Growing up in regional and rural areas, I witnessed firsthand the limited access to legal services and resources. Geographic isolation often means that people in these areas struggle to find representation, understand their rights, or even engage with the legal system at all. This lack of access can lead to justice being delayed or denied entirely for many individuals and families.
The second issue is the broader disconnect between the legal system and the communities it is meant to serve. I’ve seen how unfamiliarity with legal processes and a lack of trust in the system can discourage people from seeking legal help, particularly in underrepresented or marginalised communities. This is a systemic issue that needs to be addressed by making the legal system more accessible, transparent, and responsive to the unique needs of different populations. By tackling both the geographical and relational barriers to justice, the legal profession can make meaningful strides toward ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live or their background, can access the legal support they need.
Any advice to applicants for next year?
I’m sure many of my peers are familiar with imposter syndrome, and I’ve experienced my fair share of it as a first-generation law student. It’s so easy to compare ourselves and our achievements to those of other students, especially when we’re surrounded by others who have had different opportunities or advantages coming into law. When I was applying for this scholarship, I remember reading about the incredible achievements of past recipients and thinking, “I’ll never get this—I haven’t done enough.” I’m sure many potential applicants feel the same way, wondering if they’re good enough or if their experiences measure up. My advice is simple: just have a go. If you don’t try, the answer will always be no. Whether you’re worried about your grades, work experience, volunteer contributions, or anything else, don’t let that stop you from applying. You may be surprised by how much you’ve accomplished when you put it all together.
Last Updated on 09/12/2024