Profile

Profile

Luke White
Luke White

Luke White

Indigenous Health Scholarship

University of Western Australia, WA.

Doctor of Medicine
Scholarship Awarded 2025

Sponsored by:
Rotary Club of Karrinyup

Indigenous Health Scholarship Program

Student Profile

I am a proud descendant of the Gooreng Gooreng people of Queensland. My heritage comes through my mother’s side—my great-grandmother lived on the Cherbourg Mission, and my grandmother was a respected community elder. I am especially proud of my late mother’s contributions to the Aboriginal community; she established the Centre for Indigenous Research and Education at the Australian Catholic University and held a directorship on the Port Curtis Coral Coast Aboriginal Peoples Charitable Trust Board.

I am currently studying medicine at the University of Western Australia, a career change that reflects a long-standing passion for healthcare. Growing up in a community deeply affected by preventable diseases, violence, and suicide, I witnessed the devastating impact of health inequities on Aboriginal peoples. Losing loved ones to avoidable conditions has strengthened my resolve to pursue medicine and contribute to the delivery of culturally safe, holistic care.

How will I contribute to improving Indigenous health as a qualified medical practitioner or health worker?

The underrepresentation of Indigenous professionals in healthcare remains a critical barrier to improving health outcomes. This gap inspired my transition from a previous career into medicine, where I can provide representation and work directly with Indigenous patients.

I aim to contribute meaningfully to Indigenous health by combining my cultural knowledge, lived experience, and professional background with a strong commitment to equity. Guided by the strength and resilience of my ancestors, I hope to help our communities thrive and to empower the next generation through both healthcare and education.

As a medical practitioner, I will work to improve access to culturally appropriate care and advocate for health equity at both the clinical and systemic levels. I intend to collaborate with Indigenous individuals, communities, and organisations to address structural barriers and ensure services reflect our values and priorities.