At QAHS, we often speak about leadership as something that happens not just in front of a microphone, but in the quiet consistency of those who show up, ask thoughtful questions, and look outward as much as inward. It's in that spirit we congratulate Mattias Steljic (Year 11) on his recent appointment to the 2025 Mayor's Student Ambassador Program.
Announced in a formal ceremony at the Council Chambers - attended by Mayor Tom Tate, members of the Experience Gold Coast Board, government officials and industry partners- Mattias joins a select group of 21 students from 14 countries and eight educational institutions across the Gold Coast. It's a significant achievement and one that recognises both his character and his potential.
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The program itself is a platform that goes beyond ceremonial titles. Designed to sharpen professional and personal skills, the Mayor's Student Ambassador Program immerses its participants in behind-the-scenes experiences, media training, community engagement, and development opportunities with some of the city's most influential leaders and organisations.
It also asks something more subtle of its ambassadors: to see their city with fresh eyes, to speak about their experience with honesty and insight, and to connect meaningfully with people from all walks of life.
Mattias will represent the student voice across the City of Gold Coast - helping shape the narrative of the city as a world-class education destination, while deepening his own understanding of leadership in action.
It's an exciting journey ahead, and one we'll be following with great pride.
Congratulations, Mattias. We can't wait to see what you'll do next.
Reflecting on his experience so far, Mattias shares:
I feel incredibly proud to be appointed to the 2025 Mayor's Student Ambassador Program, representing Queensland Academy for Health Sciences as one of 21 students from 14 countries and eight educational institutions on the Gold Coast. As one of only two high school students, I'm looking forward to all the opportunities ahead of me this year - exploring the Gold Coast, meeting new friends, and experiencing things I wouldn't otherwise get the chance to.
So far, I've already had the chance to participate in several events. I attended an Induction Day at the Student Hub where I built connections with other ambassadors, was recognised during a Civic Ceremony at the Council Chambers, and most recently, I volunteered at the ICEF ANZA conference during the holidays - meeting people from all over the world.
Overall, I'm honoured to be a Mayor's Student Ambassador from QAHS, and I'm excited to keep growing through every new opportunity it brings.
- Mattias Steljic, Year 11 Mayor's Student Ambassador and Gold Coast Junior Council Representative
Marnie Chetter
Teacher of English & Student Leadership Coordinator