This National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June) St John's College, Nambour 2024 graduate Aidan Forman is already charting a meaningful legacy.
The Guugu Yalandji man, Aiden, has embarked on a new chapter studying a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine at The University of Sydney. His studies were driven by a strong commitment to give back to others, with the aim to help improve the health of his community.
In this Q&A, Aiden reflects on his journey so far, his passion for healthcare, and the people who have inspired him to be the force of change.
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine? I was inspired by multiple things, but if I were to say the most important one, it would be my parents and their backgrounds as carers.
My mum worked in aged care with the Institute of Urban Indigenous Health, frequently inviting me to come and help her out with the Elders. I loved it and really discovered my passion for helping and serving people. I have also been curious my entire life, frequently trying my best to understand the world around me. So, when people asked me what I wanted to do when I was older, I knew that whatever it was, it would need to fulfill these two needs.
I thought medicine would be a good blend of these two aspects and a great way to 'make a difference.' It was also a great way to stimulate my mind and help others.
I also wanted to fulfill my potential in a meaningful way, being able to help people inside of a clinic and further inspiring other young First Nations kids. Spending a portion of my life in an ex-mission (Woorabinda), showed me the severe lack of role models for the First Nations youth and really, a lack of hope and aspiration.
Luckily, I am privileged enough to be raised by multiple role models, including my Grandparents (on both sides) and my parents and stepparents. Without proper role models, it wouldn't have mattered how smart I was; I would not have made it this far.
Has your background influenced your journey in the medical field?
Certainly. Mrs Tollner and my mother really showed me the importance of helping and giving back to my mob. This has certainly shaped the kind of doctor that I want to be. The type of doctor that can inspire as many people as possible. I'm open to the idea of rural placements and I feel that I have an obligation to do so, due to Mrs Tollner and my family.
Where do you hope to take your medical degree, any specialisation you'd like to pursue?
Currently I am working towards Orthopaedic surgery, though I'm still figuring out the kind of lifestyle I want. I am trying to work out how I can help as many people as possible (inside and outside of the clinic) while living a lifestyle that is stimulating and fun.
Were there any moments, teachers, or experiences during your schooling that really encouraged or shaped your path?
Definitely. One of my teachers Mrs Tollner introduced me to culture and really got me involved with my heritage. This helped me develop as a person and really understand where I come from and how I can contribute to my heritage.
What does National Reconciliation Week mean to you personally?
To me, National Reconciliation Week is a time to be educated. A time to learn. A time to have pride in who my people are. To stand strong and be proud.
National Reconciliation Week is a time for hope—hope that things can change. That more Australians will walk alongside us, not just this week, but all year round. It means being heard, respected, and recognised—not just in words, but in actions. It's a time that reminds me I'm not alone, and that our voices matter.
Any other future aspirations?
I might consider becoming more politically involved in the future, though at the moment I'm focusing on my studies.
What advice would you give to other young people who dream of entering medicine?
Work hard and don't think it's impossible or really difficult. After completing Year 11 my predicted ATAR was 89, and I still worked hard, studying to get into medicine. The most important part of being a doctor is being a human. Getting perfect marks is important, yes, but the most important part is being a good person.
Also, make yourself aware of the resources available to you. It's a great idea to get in contact with the Aboriginal studies group of the universities you are applying to. They help so much and it's one of the most important things you can do when applying to not only medical school but university as a whole.
My final bit of advice is to explore! Try applying out of state. I have no regrets about getting out of my comfort zone and moving from the Sunshine Coast to Sydney. I've learned so much and experienced so many rich cultures. I genuinely believe that it's making me a better more knowledgeable person, being able to relate to and understand more people, than I could have if I had stayed local.