An education of the heart and mind: meet Jaru woman Madeleine Edwards

Aristotle wrote that educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all. 

If, by education of the heart, Aristotle meant cultivating wisdom to practically apply this knowledge of the mind, then he could rest assured that Nipper Tabagee Scholarship recipient Madeleine Edwards is well on the way to receiving a rounded education—and to putting her skills to good use once she graduates. 

Madeleine is a Jaru woman, who completed her schooling in Perth and is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Science at the University of Western Australia. She’s undertaking a double major in Human Biology and Marketing. All going to plan, she’ll graduate mid-way through next year. It’s a tough degree: the exams are hard, requiring hours of rote learning and endless, calming cups of tea. But the Indigenous support at UWA has been fantastic, and KRED has also been pleased to assist Madeleine with the purchase of a new laptop to help with her studies. 

At this stage, Madeleine’s a little indecisive as to the exact path she’ll take post-degree—perhaps dentistry, perhaps medicine, perhaps further research, or even something related to her second major in marketing. What she is sure of, is that she’d like to use her skills to give back to her community, most likely in the area of Indigenous health. Human biology, and in particular, reproduction, are key interests. 

“I'd like to be able to make a difference to current Indigenous health issues. I think one of the most pressing issues we face is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, and if we can educate about, and eliminate this, then it will also help with a lot of other issues,” Madeleine says. 

KRED’s proud to support young people like Madelaine to achieve their educational ambitions—particularly when fulfilling these ambitions requires concentration of both the mind and the heart. For those who are interested in applying for a scholarship, please head to 'scholarships' link on the navigation bar above.