Atticus Finch Justice Award: Inspiring voices for justice at John XXIII College

This year's finalists are:

• Grace Czajko
• Archie Dailly
• Will Dutton
• Zoe Hipolito
• Isaac McCready
• Chantal Pallis
• Carmen Panetta
• Salome Rivera Diaz
• Isla Strong
• Zoe Tonkin
• Alessio Torre
• Zara Zidar

Each finalist earned their place by delivering a five-minute speech engaging with the 2026 theme, ‘The Steady Hand in the Storm,’ and linking their ideas to Catholic social teaching. Selected from every Religious Education class in Year 10, they have now presented to the full Year 10 cohort and a judging panel, with the winner announced at Presentation Night.

About the Atticus Finch Justice Award

At John XXIII College, the pursuit of justice is a lived commitment that shapes our students' education and character. Established in 2011, the Atticus Finch Justice Award is a cross-curricular initiative between the English and Religious Education Learning Areas, challenging Year 10 students to engage deeply with contemporary social justice issues and to become advocates for a fairer, more inclusive world.

Inspired by Harper Lee's classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, and the College's Ignatian tradition, the award encourages students to reflect on the meaning of justice, freedom, and conscience, guided by a question at the heart of our calls to magis: ‘What more can I do for others?’

All Year 10 students take part, preparing a speech on a social justice topic of their choice that weaves in the annual theme. These speeches serve as a formal assessment for English and Religious Education, and as an opportunity for students to share their passion and insight with peers and staff.

Finalists consistently deliver speeches that are powerful, emotionally resonant, and intellectually rigorous, addressing issues such as human rights, equality, and the importance of hope in challenging times. The award exemplifies the College's mission to form young people of competence, conscience, and compassion, committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

Named after Atticus Finch, a literary figure renowned for his integrity and commitment to justice, the award reflects our College motto, Seek Justice – encouraging students to pursue justice in everyday life, through their actions, relationships, and ongoing commitment to the common good.