Head boy proud of culture

Dubai to Bunbury is a long journey but for Meraj Ahamed it has led to him being named head boy of Bunbury Senior High School.

The 17-year-old was born in the United Arab Emirates to Bangladeshi and Indian parents before moving to Bunbury when he was in Year 3.

He then attended Cooinda Primary School before moving to Bunbury High and will serve his peers alongside head girl Georgia Dodds.

Meraj described his appointment as a shock but said he had focused on his leadership and had made the role his ambition.

"It is really prestigious and an honour to receive the role," he said.

"It wasn't something I imagined in Year 8 but I've always wanted to do something to put my name out there.

"I'm proud of it and it's an honour for me, my family and people of the same culture," he said.

He has also helped at Bunbury's multicultural nights and spent time volunteering at his former primary school.

Outside of school, he has been involved with taekwondo for about seven years and credited the Power Rangers with developing his interest in martial arts.

He aims to excel in his leadership role this year and act as a role model and mentor to the school's younger students.

"I believe I can encourage people really well and take matters into my own hands," he said.

"I plan on inspiring a lot of people, particularly the younger kids who are nervous."

Meraj has also set goals of achieving a high ATAR to work as a health professional beyond school.