When the school bell rings in Ikuntji in the Northern Territory, it is more than a call to class. It is a chance to change the story.
For Shanthi Ghanta, land access coordinator at UGL, that moment came to life through UGL’s partnership with the National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy (NASCA), an initiative focused on improving school attendance and strengthening engagement among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Her journey took her to Haasts Bluff, also known as Ikuntji, a remote community 227 kilometres from Alice Springs, where around 30 children attend the local school. As a volunteer, Shanthi helped make school a welcoming place. Her days began with school pick-ups and preparing simple breakfasts. She supported classroom learning and ran workshops, from art sessions to hands-on activities such as making sausage rolls, all designed to spark curiosity and participation.
After school, Kids Club created space for connection and confidence-building through beading, basketball, pickleball and traditional Indigenous games such as Pulyugee. A community barbecue also brought volunteers and residents together, strengthening relationships beyond the classroom.
“Spending time with the children was incredibly rewarding,” Shanthi said. “There was such a strong sense of connection and shared energy throughout the week.”
Shanthi is one of several UGL employees who have had the opportunity to volunteer with NASCA, continuing a long-standing relationship.
Supporting initiatives like NASCA reflects our broader commitment to diversity, inclusion and meaningful impact, helping create positive learning environments and stronger community connections.
