Inspiring Valedictorian Speech: From the Classroom to Silicon Valley

I recently graduated from the University of Queensland as Valedictorian of the Business, Economics and Law (BEL) faculty. Giving the Valedictory address was an incredible honour and a moment that I will remember for the rest of my life. I am so proud to be a part of a cohort of change-makers, innovators, entrepreneurs and dream chasers. Courage has been a constant thread woven throughout my University experience and something that became the cornerstone of my speech. From travelling to Silicon Valley to work for a startup, competing in hackathons, being a part of peace-building projects, interning for a financial advisory startup and engaging in peace and security forums… my University experience has been one of learning, growth and hard work. And I have loved every second. Walking around campus I got to live out my Hermione Granger dreams… my love of learning and study could flourish at the University of Queensland, where I found a deep passion for social entrepreneurship and developed a profound admiration for my wonderful professors. Education has always been incredibly important to me and something I perceive as a privilege. To have been able to study at this incredible university has forever changed my life.
Thank you to all the amazing individuals who supported me along my University journey- the mentors and friends who championed me on the mountaintop and gave me encouragement when I was in the valley. I can’t wait to start writing the next chapter in my story.
“When we understand the humble origins of greatness, we begin to gather the self-belief that we too can create the change we wish to see in the world.”
Tahlia
#valedictorian #siliconvalley #startup #girlboss