The World Lebanese Cultural Union (WLCU) of Sydney hosted its Annual HSC Distinguished Achievers Awards ceremony to honor Australian Lebanese youth who have achieved remarkable results in the 2022 HSC examinations. This prestigious event, organized in collaboration with the WLCU Sydney Foundation Ltd, aims to recognize the academic accomplishments of students with Lebanese ancestry, irrespective of their familial background.
The WLCU extended a warm invitation to all students of Lebanese heritage who have received an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 95 and above, urging them to nominate themselves and attend the event on Thursday, May 25th, 2023, at the esteemed NSW Parliament House. It was an evening of celebration, acknowledging the academic achievements of these outstanding individuals.
During the ceremony, all students were formally awarded a certificate of merit, symbolizing their exceptional performance. For those students who have achieved an ATAR of 95 or higher, a commemorative silver WLCU coin was presented, signifying their remarkable accomplishment.
The event featured a keynote speech by Prof Stephen Foster, the esteemed Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). Prof Foster emphasized the significance of academics and lifelong learning, inspiring students to recognize the value of education as they embark on their future journeys.
Additionally, Mr. Joe Rizk OAM, the General Manager of Arab Bank, delivered a short speech, encouraging students to embrace change and remain open to new opportunities, even if it means redirecting their career paths. Mr. Rizk’s insightful advice will serve as a reminder that adaptability and resilience are key ingredients for success in today’s rapidly evolving world.
The highlight of the ceremony was the distribution of awards, where students received well-deserved recognition for their outstanding achievements. This momentous occasion was an opportunity for family, friends, and educators to celebrate the dedication and perseverance displayed by these remarkable young individuals.
Dr. Shane Geha, the president of the WLCU Sydney, also addressed the audience, sharing his valuable insights on success through his Six Statutes of Success. Dr. Geha’s speech urged students to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, passion, and self-belief. His words of wisdom will inspire the students to stay true to their chosen paths and strive for greatness in all their endeavors.
The President’s All Rounder Awards was another highlight of the evening, recognizing students who have not only excelled academically but have also made notable contributions in other areas such as community service, leadership, sports, and the arts. The winners of these awards, selected from the pool of high-achieving students who ideally possess an ATAR of 90 or above, were presented with a prestigious WLCU silver coin, in addition to the accolade itself.
The Annual HSC Distinguished Achievers Awards ceremony organized by the World Lebanese Cultural Union (WLCU) of Sydney was an unforgettable event. It has not only honored the outstanding achievements of Australian Lebanese youth but also inspired them to continue striving for excellence in their future endeavors. By recognizing their accomplishments and providing a platform for their success to be celebrated, the WLCU aims to empower and encourage these talented individuals to reach even greater heights in their academic and personal pursuits.
