Student from Kelvin Grove Astronomic Ambitions Catapult Him to National Scholarship

A Kelvin Grove student’s childhood fascination with space has propelled him to new heights, earning him a coveted national scholarship.



Nayl Fassi Fihri, a Year 12 student at the Queensland Academy for Creative Industries, has been selected as one of only 25 recipients of the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship for 2025.

QACI, a selective entry senior state high school located in Kelvin Grove, is renowned for its innovative educational environment and focus on creative disciplines. Established in 2007 as part of the Queensland Academies network, it is Queensland’s first vertical school, designed to accommodate a modern educational framework within a compact urban setting.

The academy offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, attracting academically gifted students from across the state and internationally.

This remarkable achievement will pave the way for Nayl’s relocation to Canberra next year. He will embark on a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics at the Australian National University. The scholarship, valued between $76,000 and $136,000, will provide comprehensive financial support for three to five years of his undergraduate studies.

Nayl’s journey exemplifies the power of unwavering determination in pursuing one’s dreams. He has always harboured a profound passion for space exploration and has consistently demonstrated the academic rigour necessary to realise his aspirations.

The road to success, however, was challenging. Nayl faced a steep learning curve when he commenced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Year 11. Despite initial difficulties, he exhibited remarkable resilience and rapidly improved his grades, a testament to his work ethic and commitment to excellence.



Nayl’s selection for the Tuckwell Scholarship underscores his exceptional potential and inspires aspiring astronauts and scientists nationwide. 

As he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his academic journey, Nayl’s story reminds him that even the most ambitious dreams can be within reach with dedication and perseverance.

Published Date 18-September-2024