Deeply passionate about the power of journalism and education, Charlotte Kahane created a legacy at RMIT dedicated to the next generation.
Born in 1926 in Western Ukraine, Charlotte Kahane emigrated to 1950s Australia from Germany with her husband Jacob in search of a new chapter post-war. Charlotte eventually attended RMIT and pursued her passion for journalism, graduating in 1978.
A stellar career followed and Charlotte worked for notable publications including The Australian Jewish News, The Australian Journal of Jewish Studies and The Jerusalem Post. After an illustrious career, Charlotte’s commitment to the power of journalism and education inspired her to leave a Bequest in her Will in Jacob's memory. The Jacob and Charlotte Kahane Scholarship, is a transformational gift offered to journalism students at RMIT.
In 2019, the generous scholarship was awarded to Jesse Burns in his final year of study.
I actually applied for the scholarship in my second year but wasn’t accepted. So I put my head down and through much hard work and dedication felt I was in a better position to receive such a scholarship and applied again.
Jacob and Charlotte Kahane Scholarship recipient, Jesse Burns
The financial support of the scholarship allowed Jesse to focus on his studies and complete valuable placements in his final year. Jesse says “the simple feeling of not having to worry about money” was a weight off his shoulders, which ultimately furthered his commitment to his studies.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this amazing and benevolent gesture,” says Jesse. “Growing up as a Jew, I have come to understand the importance of community and this scholarship spoke to me about looking towards the future and ensuring that the next generations continue to have opportunities our grandparents did not.”
Since graduating, Jesse has been working for Nine News in regional Victoria, covering stories for the local and Melbourne broadcasts, displaying the same passion for journalism as Charlotte.
“I got into the industry to seek justice and ensure people from all walks of life have a voice. For me, it’s not about a position or becoming a news anchor. I simply want to be an impact journalist.”
“I can’t thank the Kahane family enough and I hope there will be a time in the years to come where I can return my gratitude in some way.”
- Jesse Burns
