In 2024, Somerset College proudly launched two complementary leadership and wellbeing initiatives designed to empower our students to face the world with courage, integrity, and self-awareness: the Women of Valour and Men of Honour programmes.

These tailored programmes were created in response to invaluable feedback from our students, parents, and staff, highlighting the need for meaningful, real-world conversations that equip young people with the skills they need to navigate a fast-evolving world.

We’ve had the privilege of hosting some truly inspiring speakers as part of these initiatives, each sharing their unique journey and insights to motivate our students. These exceptional guests have included:

  • Zeb Taia, Former NRL and Super League International Rugby League player
  • Megan Jacobson, Prolific author and ABC journalist
  • Nathan McKittrick, Surfers Paradise Fire Fighter
  • Rico Gear, Former New Zealand All Black
  • Sophie Holyman, Current Women’s NRL Australian and Queensland representative, Canberra Raiders
  • Dane Robinson, Former Elite Triathlete and our Current Dean of Activities
  • Gold Coast Titans and Gold Coast Suns players

These speakers have brought to life themes of courage, teamwork, overcoming adversity, and the importance of staying grounded in values. Their contributions have deeply enriched the Women of Valour and Men of Honour journeys for our students, offering real-world relevance to our commitment to student wellbeing and character development. They aim to equip Somerset students with the confidence to rise to life’s challenges and lead with purpose.

Men of Honour: Strength with Integrity

Running in parallel, the Men of Honour programme was developed with international speaker and award-winning author Glen Gerreyn, who brings years of experience helping young men grow into purposeful, grounded leaders.

Key topics include:

  • The transition from boyhood to manhood
  • The importance of positive male mentors
  • The role of exercise and self-discipline
  • Online behaviour and responsible digital presence
  • Building healthy, respectful relationships


This programme provides a safe space for open dialogue and reflection, empowering our students to navigate the pressures of modern life with strength and character.  This year, we were grateful to welcome former Gold Medallist Ash Callus, who shared powerful reflections on resilience, discipline, and the importance of brotherhood in helping young men grow into confident, respectful leaders. His message underscored the value of supportive communities where boys are encouraged to aim high, persevere through setbacks, and define success on their own terms.

Women of Valour: Leading with Courage and Connection

Launched as a soft trial in 2024 with our Year 10 cohort, the Women of Valour programme was developed in close collaboration with journalist and author Madonna King. Rooted in data from our own community, it explores the themes young women identified as most relevant to them and their futures.

Topics include:

  • Building positive relationships and friendships
  • Navigating social media and negative comparison
  • The value of movement and physical wellbeing
  • The importance of perseverance and managing failure
  • Identifying mentors and embracing individuality

To launch the programme, we were honoured to welcome Australian Hockeyroos Rosie Malone, who shared powerful insights into self-belief, overcoming adversity, and the value of supportive spaces where young women can rise together.

We have officially launched the Women of Valour programme this year and embedded it alongside Men of Honour as part of Somerset College’s long-term commitment to character education. These programmes reflect our belief that academic success is only one part of a student’s journey; emotional intelligence, empathy, and resilience are equally vital.

By supporting our students to live with valour and honour, we are helping shape future leaders who are not only capable but also compassionate, confident, and community-minded.

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