Aviation dream takes flight for SYD100 scholarship recipient

Sydney Airport is proud to support the next generation through the SYD100 Scholarship, which helps young people from under-represented backgrounds pursue careers in aviation.

Now in its sixth year, the 2025 scholarship has been awarded to Amber West, a proud Wiradjuri woman from Orange in regional New South Wales.

Amber, 24, is studying a Bachelor of Aviation Management at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). She is the second First Nations student to receive the scholarship since it was created in 2019 as part of Sydney Airport’s centenary celebrations.

Each year, one full scholarship is awarded, providing $25,000 per annum towards residential fees as well as full tuition coverage for four years. The scholarship will continue to be awarded every year for 100 years.

Click here to find out more and how to apply.

Amber said: “I didn’t grow up thinking a career in aviation was possible for someone like me. But I’ve always had a passion for joining the Air Force and knew I wanted to be part of that world.

Coming from a regional town and as a First Nations woman, the SYD100 Scholarship means more than I can put into words. Being able to study at university without the financial burden gives me the chance to focus on my studies and pursue a future I never thought possible.”

Amber’s passion for aviation started back in high school, inspired by her brother’s Army service and her family’s strong Defence Force ties. At first, she dreamed of joining the Air Force, fascinated by aviation technology. Over time her focus shifted to aviation management, and she now hopes to transfer into the dual Commerce/Aviation Management degree at UNSW to combine her love of aviation with her background in finance.

Her path to university wasn’t a straight line. After several years in the workforce, she joined UNSW’s Nura Gili pre-programs for Indigenous students. That’s where she discovered the Aviation Management degree, applied, and was accepted. Soon after, she secured the SYD100 Scholarship.

“Coming to university really opened my eyes. Talking to lecturers and other students showed me how much is possible with this degree. It’s a whole world I never imagined. I now know that where you’re from doesn’t define what you can do. I hope my story encourages other young people, especially Indigenous women and those from the regions, to believe it’s never too late to chase your dreams.”

The SYD100 Scholarship is designed to support under-represented groups in aviation, including women, First Nations students, and people from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.

Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton, commented: “Amber’s story is one of grit, growth and great potential. She represents the spirit of this scholarship, showing that with the right support, anything is possible.” __

UNSW Head of Aviation, Professor Brett Molesworth, said: “Amber brings maturity, passion and drive to her studies and will no doubt inspire others. The SYD100 Scholarship continues to open doors into aviation for students who might not otherwise get the chance.”

The scholarship honour roll so far includes:

2025 – Amber West

2024 – Harmony Boonaerts

2023 – Timothy Walker

2022 – Jessie Huynh

2021 – Hoang Thai Tran (Graduated)

2020 – Manmeet Kaur (Graduated)

The SYD100 Scholarship is just one example of how Sydney Airport is helping to open doors, build pathways into aviation, and create opportunities for the next generation.