ALLORA-based University of Southern Queensland student Julie-Ann Kawano has been awarded a bursary for Indigenous Psychology students, presented at a ceremony on March 3.

The bursary is offered to one student annually. Applicants must satisfy a rigid criteria.

Julie, who currently holds a Degree in Media Studies from Queensland University of Technology, was also successful last year being awarded two equity bursaries, to assist with the purchase of necessary text books.

Life is certainly providing Julie with some challenges, the married mother of three balancing study, family and work as she enters the third year of a psychology degree.

Julie has been particularly active providing indigenous support and involving herself in study opportunities while at USQ, and for the past year has been president of the Indigenous Student Association, a group she was requested to form by staff members from the Centre for Indigenous Knowledges.

"The I.S.A. allows and encourages contact between students and also provides peer support" said Julie, "a base for students to share knowledge with one another.

"While the indigenous student population is presently small, I.S.A. provides necessary support and encouragement."

Julie also has an involvement with the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, where she was invited by USQ vice-chancellor Jan Thomas, as well as having a seat on USQ's Psychology Board. She manages to balance her time with work, study, university commitments and family, husband Jumpei and son's Grant, William and Miles.

With her goal of becoming a fully qualified psychologist practicing on the Darling Downs firmly in sight, over the next three years Julie will complete her psychology major along with an indigenous studies minor.

A devotee to supporting indigenous people, Julie is working to encourage and provide opportunities "for our indigenous population to make a commitment to future studies".