Three Hastings Secondary College students had a great start to Public Education Week after learning they had made the finals of TCS GoIT Challenge for Schools, an innovation competition that asks students to turn waste into something of value.

Sista Connections students Ruby Richardson (Yr 9), Grace Morris (Yr 10) and Lilly Boss (Yr 8) worked together to develop their concept, Run.Repurpose.Reach.

The GoIT Challenge encourages students to think creatively and develop innovative technology-based solutions to a real-world problem, which this year was creating a sustainable solution for an item used in the Sydney Marathon that is thrown away.

Run.Repurpose.Reach focuses on repurposing high-quality running shoes and delivering them to rural and remote communities through existing community partnerships.

Hastings Secondary College Relieving Principal Kristen Miller knows the sheer scale of what her students are taking on and is impressed by the work they have done to get to this stage.

"As a keen marathon runner, I know what a big deal this is,” Mrs Miller said.

“We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the way they have represented Hastings Secondary College and Sista Connections throughout the competition.

Reaching the final is a testament to their commitment, perseverance and willingness to challenge themselves."

The competition received a large number of entries this year with all competitors having to submit a video explaining their concept before being interviewed by a judging panel.

Ruby, Grace and Lilly were mentored and supported by Leader of Aboriginal Education Sara-Jane Oakeshott and STEM Project Officer Ryland O'Connell, with

the Port Macquarie Campus students’ own knowledge, planning and communication skills getting them through to the finals

Sista Connections is focused on empowering Aboriginal women to be leaders and role models of the future. The program provides academic support, empowerment through entrepreneurism and employment, well-being, and community connections.

As finalists, they will attend VIP events to promote their concept and take part in the mini marathon in Sydney later this month.