Congratulations to Year 7 student Imali Bamji on being named a finalist in the ‘Ones to Watch’ category of the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards. This category recognises girls aged 7–15 who demonstrate courage, determination and kindness through acts that support others and their communities.
Imali supports children across four schools in Bangalore, embodying the Dominican spirit of service through the Akka Project. As she setlles in to her first year of high school, Imali is also preparing for her third volunteer trip to India – work she proudly calls ‘funateering’ rather than volunteering.
‘I don’t really like to call it volunteering,’ she says. ‘I call it funateering – because I love it so much.’
The Akka Project brings Australian mothers and daughters to Bangalore to make an impact at Parikrma Humanity Foundation – to spend time assisting at four partner schools that support children living below the poverty line – many of whom come from nearby slums and face complex challenges in accessing education.
‘It’s a school for kids who are really struggling,’ Imali explains. ‘But they’re so excited to learn. We go there, make friendships, help with lessons – and just play.’
A day in the life of a ‘funateer’
Imali’s description of a typical day reads like a mixture of school, community and joyful energy.
The day begins with a ride through the city in an auto rickshaw or on the school bus, followed by morning assembly and cultural exchanges. Volunteers then help with a writing program, working with children who are strengthening their English literacy skills.
‘We go to different classes and help wherever we’re needed,’ she says. ‘Sometimes we teach them about Australian culture. Sometimes we just hang out with the kids.’
Lunch is part of the immersive experience.
‘We have the same food as the kids. We sit and eat with our hands, just like they do. You’re really with them.’
Trips typically last 10–12 days, though the Bamji family often extends their stay to help prepare, set up and support the schools beyond classroom time. In 2026, the Akka Project participants will also donate books to the schools.
Finding joy, not obligation
For Imali, service isn’t about charity – it’s about connection.
‘I just like interacting with kids who aren’t addicted to their phones. It’s real life. We’re just having fun.’
But her interest in India is deeper than play. She is observing, learning and growing into a global citizen.
‘It’s not just about service,’ she says. ‘It’s also discovering and growing yourself too.’
Though still in Year 7, Imali talks about the future with some clarity. She’s considering law, politics or even running the Akka Project full‑time.
‘I want to keep doing this – and one day, do it with my own kids.’
At Santa Sabina, Imali is also passionate about Visual Arts, Music (she’s a bass guitar player), Maths, Netball and wants to try out for Debating.
Imali sees a natural alignment between the Akka Project and Santa Sabina’s Dominican values.
‘I think it fits really well with the service ethos here,’ she says. ‘Volunteering for the greater good – and learning from others.’
Her commitment to compassion, community and joyful service is a powerful expression of the Dominican heart. Imali is already a living example of how young people can shape a fairer world through relationship, courage and love while embracing our 2026 theme: Accept the Invitation. This theme encourages us to remain open to new possibilities, to growth and to the daily invitations God places before us in our learning and relationships. Imali has accepted our invitation to relationship, to purpose, to action.
‘It’s not just helping others. It’s growing yourself as a global citizen.’
As she settles into Year 7, one thing is clear: Imali Bamji, recognised by the highest in the land as One to Watch, doesn’t just talk about making a difference. She’s already doing it, and we are so proud of her.
*Akka means big sister in several Dravidian languages of South India.
