Student Leadership Announced for 2027
At a special assembly this morning, Friday 11 September, Principal Andy Müller proudly announced Talia Brigo, Gemma Sullivan, Bimal Seneviratne and Leahm Orfanidis as Mentone Grammar’s Head Prefects for 2027.
We congratulate these four outstanding students on this significant achievement and wish them every success as they step into their leadership roles.
In announcing the appointments, Principal Müller recognised the students for their strong academic and cocurricular contributions, as well as the overwhelmingly positive feedback from staff, who described them as respectful, determined, humble and committed.
More importantly, each has consistently demonstrated the character, attitude and learning behaviours that reflect what it means to be a leader at Mentone Grammar.
“Our student leaders don’t necessarily have to have the best grades, have the lead role on stage or be the best players, but they do have to embody positive attitude and outstanding learning behaviours. The four Head Prefects for 2027 have lived out both key attributes, and in so doing have reinforced the Mentone Spirit.” — Principal Andy Müller
These are the citations shared during the special assembly, highlighting the leader profile of each appointed student:
Talia Brigo
Talia Brigo is a compassionate, inclusive and values-driven young leader whose commitment to supporting others has made a meaningful impact on the Mentone Grammar community. Since joining the School three years ago, she has embraced opportunities to contribute through leadership, service and advocacy, earning Academic Excellence and Endeavour Awards and receiving the Lachlan McLaren Memorial Award in recognition of her kindness and care for others. As a Sergeant in the Army Cadet program, a member of the Anderson Leadership Team and an advocate for inclusion and belonging, Talia leads by example, encouraging others to feel welcomed, valued and supported. Guided by her belief that small acts of kindness can make a profound difference, she consistently fosters connection, respect and community spirit, making her a highly respected role model among her peers. I am pleased to announce Talia as Head Prefect for 2027.
Gemma Sullivan
Gemma is a dedicated and highly accomplished student whose enthusiasm, determination and school spirit have made her a valued contributor to life at Mentone Grammar. A strong academic performer, she has received Academic Merit and Excellence Awards while simultaneously excelling in sport, proudly representing the School in swimming for five consecutive years as well as athletics, cross country, aerobics and water polo, including competing at national level and representing the AGSV. Through her involvement in the Anderson House Leadership Team, school events, fundraising activities and service initiatives, Gemma has worked to build school spirit and encourage participation, earning the Anderson House Horler Cup in recognition of her commitment and house pride. Her energy, positivity and genuine desire to help others feel connected continue to inspire those around her. I am pleased to announce Gemma as Head Prefect for 2027.
Bimal Seneviratne
Bimal is a highly regarded student whose commitment to inclusion, service and community has had a significant impact at Mentone Grammar. As Inclusivity Captain in 2026, he has worked to foster a culture where every student feels respected, valued and empowered to be themselves, while also developing his leadership through roles including Bayview Captain, Clark House Leadership Team member and Sergeant in the Army Cadet program. Passionate about creating opportunities for others, Bimal led the School’s largest-ever Pride March participation, encouraging more than 50 students to become involved, and has contributed extensively through wellbeing, social service and community initiatives, as well as Open Days and school events. A proud Mentonian, he is respected for his ability to bring people together and strengthen a culture of inclusion, belonging and connection. I am pleased to announce Bimal as Head Prefect for 2027.
Leahm Orfanidis
Leahm is a thoughtful, compassionate and highly accomplished student whose leadership is defined by service, resilience and genuine care for others. Throughout his time at Mentone Grammar, he has excelled academically, receiving Academic Excellence Awards and subject awards in Music Technology, Music, Mathematics and Science, while also making significant contributions through debating, the Da Vinci Decathlon, the Ainger Peck Competition, Ethics Olympiad case writing and the School’s music program. Guided by the belief that leadership is demonstrated through actions rather than titles, Leahm has actively supported social service initiatives, house activities and a wide range of cocurricular pursuits. Known for his intellectual curiosity, quiet determination and approachable nature, he consistently seeks to ensure others feel respected, included and heard, making him a trusted and admired member of the School community. I am pleased to announce Leahm as Head Prefect for 2027.
We warmly congratulate our 2027 Head Prefects and wish them every success in the year ahead. We also acknowledge the many impressive Year 11 students who applied for this role and thank them for their contributions to leadership within our School.
Additionally, we thank our current Head Prefects – Ben Costa, Curtis Murphy, Natalie Nomikos, and Ella Whittaker – for the exceptional leadership they’ve shown throughout 2026. Each brought their own strengths and perspectives to the role, and they should feel incredibly proud of all they’ve accomplished. They will continue in their positions until the end of the VCE Journey alongside our new Head Prefects.