Rhys Hollo-Russell

Rhys is a Kokatha man from South Australia, who was born and raised on Yirrganydji saltwater Djabugay country in Cairns QLD. 

Rhys is dedicated to Indigenous empowerment. The CYLP Manager oversees scholarship support and ensures students, families and staff remain committed to academic excellence. Working with the Team Leader and the Student Support Officers, he delivers quality education opportunities throughout Queensland. 

Rhys leads a dedicated team and provides holistic support to scholarship participants. This includes fostering supportive relationships, ensuring access to tutors and mentors, and facilitating successful transitions from primary to secondary school. Transitioning from home life to a new educational environment takes time, and is a substantial adjustment that all successful scholarship applicants undergo. The CYLP Manager ensures students are supported the entire time and that their support networks can be a part of the transition experience. 

Rhys is responsible for maintaining quality and timely reporting to the CYP Board, Cape York Partnership Executive, Partner schools and multiple Funding agencies. This commitment to transparency ensures that the outcomes of the program are worthy of the current financial investment. The role involves extensive strategic planning, development and leadership that is only possible through collaboration with partner schools, Indigenous liaison officers and the Cape York Community. 

Rhys embodies a commitment to diversity and intolerance of discrimination, harassment and bullying. This commitment extends to the expectations of students and their families. All successful applicants are the beneficiaries of a world-class scholarship program that has invested in the people of Cape York for close to 20 years. This support thrives on reciprocity and respect, Rhys shares a vision for a strong and proud community of present and emerging First Nations leaders.