Siyona, a Year 12 student, was appointed House Leader for the entire McDonald House, while her younger brother Kairav, in Year 6, was selected as Primary House Leader. While students across year levels often look up to older leaders for guidance, it’s far less common to see leadership run in the family. 

A Surprising Leadership Opportunity 

For Siyona, the moment she was announced as House Leader came as a shock. 

“I felt extremely surprised and slightly overwhelmed,” she said. “I didn’t really think I would get it. I actually ran because of peer pressure from teachers, parents and fellow students.” 

 Despite her initial surprise, Siyona quickly embraced the responsibility. As the leader of the entire house, she plays a key role in guiding students, organising house meetings, and helping maintain a positive environment. 

 “To me, leadership means managing the wellbeing of students while making sure they’re having fun and supporting anyone who needs help,” she explained. 

Her leadership style focuses on collaboration and listening to others before making decisions. Among the McDonald House leadership team, she often takes the lead in helping manage behaviour during house meetings and ensuring events run smoothly. 

 A Young Leader with Big Enthusiasm 

Meanwhile, for Kairav in Year 6, becoming Primary House Leader was both exciting and meaningful. 

“I felt happy,” he said. “But I also realised that it is a big job to do.” 

 Kairav believes strong leadership comes down to a few key qualities: responsibility, good communication, the ability to delegate, and treating others with kindness and respect. 

 And like many Primary leaders, he’s especially excited about the fun side of the role. 

“I’m excited that I get a badge and a certificate - and that I get to scream the house chant to motivate people!” 

 Leading Together as Siblings 

Sharing the leadership experience as siblings has made the year even more memorable for both of them. 

 For Siyona, it’s been rewarding to watch her younger brother step into the role. 

“It’s nice that I can give him advice, and he can actually see it in practice,” she said. “I am very proud of him for getting the role. His speech was very funny - it clearly runs in the genes!” 

 Kairav is equally proud of his older sister. 

“I feel good and proud and happy that we are the first sibling duo House Leaders,” he said. 

He also looks up to Siyona’s leadership style. 

“I think she is a good leader. I like the way she commandeers people and explains things easily.” 

 Learning Leadership - At School and At Home 

Although the siblings don’t talk about leadership constantly at home, Siyona occasionally offers guidance when Kairav faces challenges in his role. 

“We talk about how to manage students and sometimes about what he would like to see in house meetings,” she said. 

 Through watching his sister lead, Kairav has gained a deeper understanding of what leadership really involves. 

“It’s tough and it doesn’t look as easy as I thought it was,” he admitted. “If there are a lot of people, you need to speak loudly or clap your hands to get their attention.” 

 Building House Spirit 

One of Siyona’s main goals this year is to strengthen the sense of belonging within McDonald House. 

“I would like to focus on building the spirit of the house,” she said, while still hoping the house places in the top three in competitions. 

 Some of the highlights so far have already brought that vision to life. Siyona was particularly proud when McDonald House achieved second place in Swim Sports and first in Participation, and when the house performed strongly in the Tug of War competition. 

 “It was thrilling to see the house excited, motivated and proud to be part of McDonald,” she said. 

 Setting an Example for Others 

As Primary House Leader, Kairav hopes to set a strong example for younger students. 

“I want to show people how to be respectful, responsible and happy,” he said. “You should be smart, not cheat, not distract others in class - but still have fun.” 

 Advice for Future Leaders 

Looking ahead, Siyona encourages younger students not to be afraid to step forward when leadership opportunities arise. 

“Don’t be afraid to do it,” she said. “Before you know it, it will all be over. It’s okay to make mistakes - especially now - because it helps us grow into the people we want to become.” 

 As for Kairav, he hopes the year ahead can be summed up in just one word: “Laughter.” 

 With Siyona guiding the entire house and Kairav energising the Primary students, the McDonald House community is in capable - and family-connected - hands.  

 Their shared leadership is not only a unique moment for ACG Sunderland, but also a reminder that inspiration can start close to home.