Students Leave Their Mark on the NRL Through School to Work Program
Year 11 students Kayla Michals and Mia Daley have turned their creativity into wearable art, painting a pair of boots that will be worn by Gold Coast Titans' fullback Keano Kini during Thursday night's NRL Indigenous Round.
The students were selected for the Boots for Brighter Futures initiative, which forms part of the NRL School to Work Program.
Inspired by the Titans' blue and gold colours, the girls created a striking Indigenous design featuring traditional meeting places represented by circles, connected by dotted trails. While the artwork wasn't intended to tell a specific story, it reflects the visual style and symbolism often found in Indigenous art, resulting in a vibrant and eye-catching design.
Despite admitting they don't come from an artistic background, both students embraced the opportunity.
"It was a really cool experience," they said.
"We were excited to be involved, and seeing the finished boots was pretty amazing."
The Boots for Brighter Futures program provides young people with the chance to connect with culture through art while contributing to an initiative that raises awareness and sparks important conversations during the NRL Indigenous Round.
Seeing their artwork showcased on the national stage is a proud achievement and memorable highlight for both students. We look forward to seeing their design on full display as Keano and the Titans take on the Cowboys on Thursday night!
