A blind cricketer, an archer and two equestrian vaulters are among the 104 children from across NSW and the ACT receiving over $430,000 in Variety Heart Scholarships.
The scholarships support talented young people in either sport or the arts who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.
This year’s record-breaking program saw children aged 7 – 18 years granted $431,232 for 74 sports grants and 30 grants across the arts.
Variety NSW/ACT CEO Tony Warner, said he was astonished by the calibre and commitment of recipients who are achieving incredible feats across a diverse range of activities, despite financial or physical barriers.
“The passion shown by our scholarship recipients – and their families – is truly amazing. Whether it’s the huge distances covered to access specialist training, or the sacrifices made to afford lessons and competitions, they are giving it their all to follow their dreams,” Tony said.
“One of the things that Variety stands for is levelling the playing field for children so that everyone can be included and equal, so we’re thrilled to be supporting these 104 young people to reach their full potential.”
“I have no doubt we will see some of their names up in Hollywood lights or on the world stage in Brisbane 2032.”
Leah Walker’s 13-year-old daughter, Ivy, received a $5000 grant for her efforts in both para-alpine skiing during Winter and the NSW blind cricket team in Summer.
“Ivy was born with a range of visual conditions which has seen her undergo numerous operations and invasive treatments. Despite this, Ivy has shown exceptional sporting prowess and has been earmarked for future Australian and paralympic representation,” said Leah.
“The scholarship will enable Ivy to move from the NSW Blind Cricket team into the Australian Blind Cricket pathway program and pursue her dream of representing her country in the sport she loves and that has brought her so much joy at the times she has needed it most.”
Since 2017, the scholarships have been made possible thanks to the generous support of presenting partner, the Grahame Mapp Family Foundation in honour of the late Gillian Mapp.
Applications will open again for Variety Heart Scholarships in May 2025. For more information, visit Variety Heart Scholarships page.
MEDIA CONTACT: Michelle Van Doninck, Variety Communications Manager – 0402 851 475 or [email protected]
