Congratulations to CQUniversity students Janita Chapman of Bundaberg and Sam Raciti of Mackay who have gained Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) scholarships.

The pair were among scholarship recipients recognised during an IBA awards dinner in Canberra in mid-February. IBA scholarships help applicants undertake study in commercial, business or financial fields.

Sam Raciti and Janita Chapman

The evening was hosted by ABC Message Stick's Miriam Corowa with Dr Dawn Casey, IBA's Chair, presenting the awards to proud scholarship recipients.

Guests included the Secretary of the Department of Families and Housing, Community Affairs and Indigenous Affairs Dr Jeff Harmer, scholarship recipients, IBA Board members and staff.

The IBA Scholarship Fund is a new initiative which aims to provide mature-age Indigenous Australians with opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills in business and finance through education. which in turn contributes to economic development in Indigenous communities.

The IBA Scholarship fund is important as it provides assistance outside of that provided by other government and private funds.

Dr Dawn Casey said she is proud that IBA can provide mature-age Indigenous Australians with opportunities to study and achieve educational qualification.

"I congratulate the IBA Scholarship recipients on their commitment to study and their community. I look forward to hearing about their achievements in furthering economic development within their communities," Dr Casey said.

For further information on the IBA Scholarship fund visit www.iba.gov.au

Sam and Janita celebrate with the other scholarship recipients