Kingaroy's very own Mia De Guzman has been awarded one of the highly prestigious and coveted TJ Ryan Memorial Medals for 2025. This esteemed award—valued at $5,000—is presented by the Queensland Government to support exemplary students in their pursuit of tertiary studies.
The TJ Ryan Memorial Medal is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and outstanding leadership within their school and local community. Despite tough competition, Ms De Guzman, who was Saint Mary Catholic College's 2024 Dux and served as the College's Student Voice Captain, will be one of only 15 students across Queensland to receive this honour.
When asked about the announcement, Ms De Guzman's parents, Philip and Evelyn, expressed immense pride and happiness. "We were so happy and proud of our daughter, and we truly believe that she deserves this prize. We couldn't be prouder as parents," they said.
Ms De Guzman's academic success and leadership qualities are attributed to her hard work and high standards. "Mia studies hard and sets a high standard for herself. She doesn't shy away from challenges and deals with them responsibly. She always gives her best effort and when you do that, good things happen," her parents noted.
Ms De Guzman's growth and development have also been influenced by her school and community involvement. She has been inspired by her teachers' dedication and commitment to providing the best possible education. The school supported her applications for various academic and community awards, and her friends at school have been kind and caring. Her participation in extracurricular activities and community events has contributed to her personal development and allowed her to make friends and acquaintances outside school and even outside the region.
Ms De Guzman said that her school played a tremendous role in nurturing her skills, confidence, leadership experience, and academic success. She expressed gratitude to her teachers and the local community for their support. "Without all these amazing people, I could not have strode this far; for them, I am ever grateful," she said.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ms De Guzman said, "When I received the offer letter, I was exhilarated! It felt incredibly fulfilling and I was immensely grateful for this opportunity and recognition. I was excited to share the news with everyone who had enthusiastically helped to accomplish this goal—family, friends, and school staff!"
Ms De Guzman's advice to other students aspiring to achieve similar academic excellence is to prioritize wellbeing and strive for balance. "Work hard, but don't forget to allow yourself well-deserved rest, too! Seek support from those you trust—they will get you across the rougher parts of the road. It is also important to regulate your inner self-talk; aspire to be your own biggest cheerleader by persistently affirming yourself, especially in moments of doubt and uncertainty," she advised.
College Principal, Ms Carmel O'Brien also praised Ms De Guzman's dedication and achievements. "Mia is a hard worker, and it is befitting that she has been recognised and supported financially to continue her studies. We are proud of her efforts and look forward with great excitement to see what pathways her future holds," Ms O'Brien said.
Receiving this award has reinvigorated Ms De Guzman's excitement, motivation, and aspirations for her tertiary pathway. "It not only offers generous funds to support my university education," Ms De Guzman said, "but it also provides an encouraging reminder that I am capable of facing future challenges. More than before, I am determined to work hard to excel and accomplish my study and career goals," she concluded.
Congratulations, Mia, on this remarkable accomplishment!Despite facing health problems and a demanding academic load, Mia persevered with the support of her parents. "As parents, we support Mia by seeking medical help as soon as possible, constantly checking on her, and providing all that she needs to cope. We teach Mia and her siblings the value of education and how it has helped open doors of opportunities for us. But it is not all about studying, we also emphasise giving importance to taking care of oneself, spending quality time with family and friends, and remaining faithful to God," they shared.