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When she first undertook tertiary studies, Kerstin Styche had no idea that her love of photography would bring her more than simple enjoyment.
At this week's Canberra Institute of Technology graduation, however, the 2010 graduate was awarded the Len Barratt Award and CIT Medal for her outstanding work as a photography student.
''When I first heard about receiving the Len Barratt prize I was like, 'Wow, this is a really big deal.' I was really surprised,'' Ms Styche said.
The Len Barratt Award is awarded to an indigenous graduate who has completed a diploma, advanced diploma or degree. The recipient must show a positive work ethic and make a consistent effort towards his or her studies.
Ms Styche, who credits her success to support from family and friends, undertook a Bachelor of Design (Photography) and in 2010 became the first indigenous person to graduate from CIT with a degree.
''It means a lot to receive the awards I have because I feel like I am able to represent my people.''
With her own innovative style of photography, it was not the first time Ms Styche had received public accolades. Earlier this year, she was featured at the Huw Davies Gallery for NAIDOC Week 2001, with her exhibition Walan Budhang Yinaagirrbang. She was the fourth PhotoAccess Emerging Indigenous photographer to show at the gallery.
Ms Styche is a Wiradjuri woman with family connections to western NSW, but she was born and raised in Canberra.
She currently works at the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Studies where she is a senior photographic technician. She has held the job at the institute throughout her course and intends to keep working there for as long as she can.
For those looking to turn a hobby into a profession, Ms Styche offers the advice, ''Spend as much time as you can enjoying what you do.''