The Spirit of Change: OCC Award Recipient
Every year, the Old Collegians' Club honours a remarkable school leaver with a prestigious prize. The recipient must demonstrate extraordinary contributions to the College through selflessness, courage, and friendship—qualities that embody the true spirit of MLC.
In 2024, Francesca Yatomi-Clarke emerged as the outstanding choice for this honour.
Since joining MLC in Year 10, Francesca established herself as a keen advocate for change in just three years. Her journey exemplifies how the right environment can empower young women to make a difference beyond the school gates.
As the leader of the Feminism Club, Francesca's initial focus was on improving how Junior Secondary School students received sensitive content at MLC. What started as a school-based initiative soon caught the attention of broader political circles.
Supported by her teachers and the school administration, Francesca took the initiative of arranging a meeting with Kew MP, Jess Wilson. She presented her case for implementing MLC's innovative approaches across Victorian schools, and the Education Minister Ben Carroll responded with enthusiasm. This early success fuelled Francesca's determination to push further.
She secured a meeting at Parliament House with the Deputy Premier's Senior Policy Advisor and a Department of Education representative. The outcome was remarkable—her proposals are now being considered as part of Victoria's broader consent education framework, potentially influencing thousands of students across the state.
"Not only does MLC show to the world what they support, they also foster an environment that encourages women to be world-ready leaders," Francesca reflects. She credits much of her success to MLC's progressive environment—a school that doesn't just carry the word 'progressive' in its name but embodies it in action. The MLC Spirit, she explains, creates a unique combination of thoughtful consideration and bold action.
Coming from a smaller school, Francesca was particularly struck by MLC's diverse and inclusive community. "The beauty of such a large school is that you're bound to find your community," she says. "Whether your passion is science, arts, sports, or advocacy, there's always teacher and leaders who are ready to support and inspire you."
The school's extensive resources and supportive framework have played a crucial role in Francesca's journey. Her advice to current students is emphatic: "Take advantage of every opportunity. MLC provides a unique environment where resources, support, and opportunities converge. If you're passionate about something, the school will help you achieve it."
Francesca's experiences at MLC have inspired her to pursue international human rights advocacy, taking the spirit of change she developed at school to a global platform. With plans to focus on international relations, she hopes to continue making meaningful changes in society. As she prepares to graduate, Francesca stands as a shining example of MLC's mission to develop world-ready leaders.
The Old Collegians Club Prize couldn't have found a more fitting recipient—someone who embodies the values of courage, leadership, and commitment to positive change that MLC strives to instil in all its students.
