Loreto Kirribilli asks student who grew up in St Leonards to give speech at assembly about hardship and resilience

RAGS TO RICHES: A student at a top private girls school in Sydney’s Lower North Shore has shared her remarkable story of transformation, against all odds.

Year 11 Loreto Kirribilli student Emma Fullerton-Hayes gave a speech at school assembly today about her traumatic childhood in St Leonards.

“Life was very different for me back then,” she said.

“For starters I used to go to North Sydney Public School and at home we didn’t even have harbour views or a private chef.”

Fullerton-Hayes, whose family moved to Cremorne in 2019, said she was initially hesitant to share her story but ultimately felt a responsibility to give back.

“I just hope my story inspires other girls from non-waterfront suburbs,” she said.

The school praised Emma’s bravery.

“We wanted someone who could speak authentically,” the Deputy Principal told DBT.

“Emma’s journey is not one many of our girls will be familiar with.”