The Pinnacle Foundation Scholarship, Griffith University

The Pinnacle Foundation has been established to provide scholarships and mentorship to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer youth who are marginalised or disadvantaged because of their sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression.

With financial support and vocational mentoring, The Pinnacle Foundation aims to encourage achievements in higher education and training, nurturing the next generation of leaders of the LGBTIQ community.

Launched in 2009, The Pinnacle Foundation was established to assist LGBTIQ students who are disadvantaged or marginalised because of their sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression. Some applicants come from families who are unable to support their pursuits in higher education; others come from homes where they are not welcomed because of who they are. In today's modern world, many young LGBTIQ people simply find themselves in a position where they do not have money and support to pursue their studies.

Through the establishment of a scholarship fund, The Pinnacle Foundation provides scholarships to help young LGBTIQ people complete their studies at school, university, training college or vocational institution.

Additionally, The Pinnacle Foundation provides a mentoring program. Pinnacle scholars are matched with a successful professional at the pinnacle of their field. Whether it is in the arts, education, business, law, medicine, science, environment and/or government, mentors will provide Pinnacle scholars with guidance in career development and leadership.

• The Pinnacle Foundation

The scholarship is open to anyone who:

• is an Australian citizen of at least 16 up to 24 years of age at the time the scholarship is awarded
• is a permanent resident of Australia
• identifies as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex or Queer and, as because of this has personal or social circumstances which provide significant challenges to the person completing their education; or
• has been marginalised due to sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression; and
• In the opinion of the Selection Committee:
  • takes their studies seriously and has shown academic achievement during their years at school; and
    
  • can demonstrate their commitment to completing Year 12, a tertiary degree or vocational training
  • demonstrates leadership skills, has good academic results and wants to make a difference in the world; and
  • is proud to stand up for the LGBTIQ rights and is dedicated to the LGBTIQ community.

To apply for The Pinnacle Foundation Scholarship visit the website and complete and submit the application form. Applications can be emailed to: applications@thepinnaclefoundation.org

Applications close on 15 October 2012.