Courage Starts Here Awards

The Penrhos Embrace Award recognises a member of our Alumni for their ongoing relationship with the College and their enduring efforts to contribute to our community. These are the people who help nurture the intergenerational connections that enrich our legacy. 

Congratulations to Natalie Freeman!

Natalie’s connection to Penrhos is remarkable. A member of the Class of 1984, she has served as Secretary of the Alumni Committee for more than three decades, supporting generations of Alumni Presidents and helping preserve the history of the Association along the way. Known affectionately as “the owl” for either remembering every detail or knowing exactly where to find it, Natalie is a true quiet achiever. Her unwavering commitment, wisdom and service represent an extraordinary legacy of connection and belonging. 

The Create Award celebrates a staff member who brings creativity, innovation and collaboration into the heart of our learning and community experiences. It honours those who stretch minds, open possibilities and champion creative growth. 

Congratulations to Janine Tate / おめでとうございます、テート先生

Janine brings creativity, curiosity and a genuine sense of adventure to Japanese language learning at Penrhos. She continually finds new ways to make learning engaging and meaningful, combining technology, culture and real-world experiences that extend well beyond the classroom. From pioneering the Junior School Tokyo Tour to leading experiences across both Junior and Secondary School, Janine encourages students to embrace challenge, explore different perspectives and develop a genuine love of language, culture and learning. 

The Soar Award celebrates a lifelong learner – someone who models growth, humility and commitment in their own development, while uplifting those around them. 

Congratulations to Alison Kalajzich!

Alison continually pushes herself into new areas of learning, and importantly, brings others along with her. She has researched alternative approaches to credentialing and recognising student capabilities, and explored industry partnerships that connect students with authentic professional pathways. Most recently, Alison has deliberately built her expertise in artificial intelligence, becoming a trusted source of support for colleagues at all levels of confidence. Her curiosity, generosity and willingness to venture into unfamiliar territory make her an inspiring lifelong learner. 

The Blaze Award honours a student who has demonstrated exceptional courage, curiosity, and a commitment to challenging convention for the greater good. It recognises those who lead with passion and purpose – who are brave enough to blaze new trails. 

Congratulations to Ebony Stevenson!

Ebony has shown extraordinary courage, not only through her achievements as an elite wheelchair basketballer, including representing Australia and winning Commonwealth Games bronze, but through her determination to create change for others. Named Basketball WA’s 2026 Female Player of the Year, Ebony has also challenged barriers to accessibility at Penrhos and advocated for greater inclusion and representation in her sport. She uses her experiences and her voice with purpose, blazing a trail while making the path better for those who follow. 

The Impact Award recognises an individual who has made a significant and positive difference within and beyond the Penrhos community. It celebrates service, connection, and the power of action. 

Congratulations to Kristy Christophersen!

For more than 13 years, Kristy has been an extraordinary contributor to Penrhos, as a parent rep and through Auxiliary, P&F, Friends of Penrhos, Friends of Sport and Friends of Rowing. Beyond the College, she has volunteered with playgroups and junior sporting clubs, supported Clontarf students and stepped in whenever families need a hand. We often say it takes a village; Kristy reminds us what that village looks like: showing up, sharing the load and bringing people together.