Courage Starts Here Awards

Congratulations to Kay Lee!

The Penrhos Embrace Award honours alumni who nurture the deep connections that make our community so special – and no one embodies that spirit more than Kay Lee.

Kay’s commitment to Penrhos spans decades. She continues to give generously of her time and talents – mentoring students and alumni, presenting at events, championing opportunities for young women and serving on the Penrhos College Foundation. Always present, always supportive, Kay brings warmth, wisdom and quiet generosity to everything she does.

Congratulations to Aliesha Tomkyns!

The Soar Award honours a lifelong learner – someone who uplifts others while growing in their own journey. This year, we celebrate Junior School Music Coordinator, Aliesha Tomkyns, whose passion, humility and vision continue to inspire.

Aliesha has transformed Junior School music at Penrhos – founding our Year 2 Strings program, launching PenRock (our Junior School band), and creating inclusive spaces where every student can discover the joy of music. She’s a leader who embraces new ideas, fosters confidence and champions creative expression for students of all abilities. Her commitment to both musical excellence and community spirit is an inspiration.

Congratulations to Alisha McMullen!

The Impact Award recognises those who create meaningful change within and beyond our community – and this year’s recipient, Alisha McMullen, is a shining example.

A passionate educator with a global outlook, Alisha inspires agency and compassion in her students while co-leading ALL IN – a leadership program equipping young people to be change-makers. Her influence extends far beyond Penrhos: from mentoring at international conferences to forging partnerships with schools and universities, she is shaping the future of education and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.

Congratulations to Ashlyn King!

The Blaze Award celebrates those who lead with courage, curiosity and conviction – and this year, we are honoured to recognise Ashlyn King for blazing a trail like no other.

After surviving a life-threatening brain bleed and more than a year in hospital, Ashlyn returned not just to rebuild her own life – but to make a difference. Through fundraising, advocacy and public speaking, she’s raised over $150,000 for organisations including Ronald McDonald House, Perth Children’s Hospital and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Ashlyn turns adversity into purpose and lives every day with fierce compassion and unstoppable determination. She is courage in action and a true inspiration.

Congratulations to Hannah Fay!

The Penrhos Create Award celebrates staff who inspire innovation, stretch minds and lead with collaboration – and this year’s recipient, Hannah Fay, does just that and more.

A passionate Chemistry teacher and inclusive leader, Hannah sparks curiosity and confidence in every space she steps into. From championing student voice through Pride Day and the Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA), to mentoring early career teachers and leading a powerful Professional Learning Community, Hannah is redefining what it means to create transformative learning experiences.