UniBank leaders scholars look past COVID-19 with optimism

“Adapt and stay focussed on your goals” is the advice given to young people dealing with the challenges of COVID-19 from the 2021 UniBank Leaders Scholarship recipients. 

Alacoque Tunny from the University of Adelaide and Kal Glanznig from the University of Sydney were both awarded a $5,000 UniBank scholarship for displaying exemplary leadership. 

Alacoque, who is studying a Bachelor of Commerce, is one of only five women to captain the Adelaide University Boat Club since it was established in 1881. It’s an achievement she shares with South Australian Governor, Frances Adamson, who was the first ever female captain in 1984. 

However, COVID-19 restrictions means that Alacoque will unfortunately not be able to captain her crew in this year’s UniSport Nationals.

“Rowing wasn’t even open to women for a long time in universities, so it’s great to be part of important legacy and change. I have been so excited about the Nationals, and we have been training really hard, but in a world of COVID-19, or anything for that matter, sometimes you have to adapt. Seeing how we face adversity and overcome it, shows people’s true character,” Alacoque said.

As well as her studies and rowing commitments, Alacoque has also travelled twice to Malawi in Africa with Project Everest Ventures. In her most recent trip in early 2020, she was appointed Team Leader for a Microfinance project focused on increasing access to finance in sub-Saharan Africa.

“I love Malawi; it’s a beautiful country. My time there has really helped me to develop leadership skills such as working with people who are different to me, organisation and delegation skills, as well as inspiring people to contribute the most they can,” said Alacoque. 

Kal Glanznig is a water polo athlete and environmentalist who is determined to not let COVID-19 get in the way of his goals. Currently a player in the Sydney University Lions, he has held multiple captaincies and representations in national, state, and regional teams.  

Kal is also a cofounder of Plastic Free Cronulla, an initiative that works with local schools and businesses in Cronulla to reduce their use of plastic. Through the initiative he is also working with the NSW State and Federal governments to push for a sustainable, cultural change towards plastic.

“You can’t let COVID-19 get in the way of your goals. In fact, now is the time to think about how you can make those goals even bigger. For example, COVID-19 has changed my perspective on becoming an athlete. Now, I don’t just dream about how much I would love to become an Olympic-level athlete – I’m instead focusing on the steps I need to take right now to make that dream a reality.

“I’m also using this time to plan the next move for Plastic Free Cronulla. I’m determined to expand our work beyond Cronulla to every business and school in the Sutherland Shire,” Kal said.Prior to University, as a year 12 student at Caringbah High School, Kal worked with the school to obtain grants to help fund the installation of solar panels; efforts that have since delivered the school more than $15,000 in annual savings. 

“I’m no climate expert; I’m just a young person who wants to live in a world where future generations can enjoy its natural beauties. Leaders today, both political and corporate, should feel a sense of responsibility and excitement that they hold the future of humanity in their hands,” said Kal.

UniBank General Manager Mike Lanzing said Alacoque and Kal were chosen from a large and exceptionally high-calibre pool of applications.

“Alacoque and Kal impressed us with their optimism and determination during what has been an exceptionally challenging time for this generation. Their strength of character is a great example, not only to people in their age group, but also to our nation’s leaders, as they navigate us through the challenges of this pandemic and climate change,” said Mr Lanzing.

UniSport Australia Chief Executive Mark Sinderberry said all the applicants were outstanding examples of student athletes.

“We have the privilege to witness the many achievements of students who productively combine their academic pursuits with their physical endeavours, Alacoque and Kal epitomise this combination. We are also extremely grateful to UniBank for their interest and support of this group of outstanding leaders,” said Mr Sinderberry.

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