NORTHERN TERRITORY

Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards

2024 Northern Territory Young Achiever Award Winners

 

Overall Winner - 2024 Northern Territory Young Achiever of the Year

Jordon Humphreys

 

 

Spirit Super Connecting Communities Award

Nilesh Dilushan of Bayview, is dedicated to fostering a connected and service-minded youth community. His leadership catalyzed Rotaract Young Professionals NT, driving youth-driven initiatives for social change. Engaging 420 participants, organizing 12 events, and raising $20,000, his impact is tangible. Through programs like FINSMART and Jump Start, he addresses youth employment and substance abuse, empowering young leaders and creating employment pathways.

 

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award

Royal Existence Dance Academy of Coconut Grove led by Samantha Price since 2018, fosters inclusivity and creativity in Darwin. With 350+ students and 12 staff, they offer 70 weekly classes, impacting 1370+ lives. Achievements include scholarships and high competition scores. Actively engaging with schools, events, and charities, three seniors have been sent to prestigious dance universities in 5 years.

 

Somerville Promoting Disability Rights and Inclusion Award

Tom McMaster of Durack, champions disability advocacy through his Supported Employment Cafe. His 'True Crew' offers the True Taste of Cooking with Kindness, sponsors the Special Children’s Christmas Party, and provides a free meeting place for Darwin Special Needs Families. Tom ensures fair employment for NDIS participants, offering hospitality rates and valuable work experience, providing a welcoming environment in collaboration with Territory True Disability Support Services.

 

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award

Joel Benesha of Driver pioneers innovation as Director of Benesha Robotics and Founder of Reality Creation. With a software engineering honours degree and 8 scholarships from Charles Darwin University, he won Croc Pitch 2019 and received the CDU Innovation Award. Joel's smartwatch prototype uses satellite 4G Sim networks to enhance remote health. His technology workshops empower indigenous communities with practical skills.

 

Minister for Youth Excellence in Youth Leadership Award

Jordon Humphreys of Sadadeen advocates for youth and disability rights in Central Australia. Through legislative lobbying and community leadership, he empowers individuals. Spearheading initiatives like the NT Youth Conference showcases his commitment. Aspiring to join the NT Parliament, he inspires others by proving that overcoming hardships is possible. Jordon uplifts and empowers his community, fostering resilience among Central Australian youth.

 

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award

Tomisena Duncan of Mataranka dedicates herself to personal and professional growth. As an aspiring Indigenous educator at Jilkminggan School, she leads Indigenous Language and Culture planning. Recognised in several awards for her efforts in advancing Kriol literacy, Tomisena fosters a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring student well-being. Pursuing studies at Batchelor Institute, she aims to inspire colleagues and students alike.

 

 

Colemans Contracting & Earthmoving Agriculture Award

Romy Carey of Berry Springs demonstrates leadership and innovation. Rising from Acting to Deputy CEO at Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA), driving growth. Leading NTCA’s Annual Conference, Romy raised $220,000 for charity. Advocating for remote health services and Australia's animal health, Romy contributes significantly. From Barkly Outreach Station Service to the National Feral Pig Action Plan, Romy is dedicated to the community and industry.

 

NT Government Young Carers Award

Khalehla Cartwright of Herbert demonstrates exceptional commitment and resilience as a caregiver to her sister, Emmelline, diagnosed with Dup15q. Despite demanding responsibilities, Khalehla ensures Emmelline's safety, health, and community involvement. Through consistent care and guidance, she has reduced Emmelline's anxiety, strongly encouraging her growth and independence. Khalehla's selflessness shines through, enhancing her sister's quality of life and well-being.

 

 

Charles Darwin University International Student Award

Cong Do Le (Peter) managed a cafe in Maningrida. With a perfect GPA, he developed an AI-powered education app to help indigenous students overcome language barriers and engage with science and technology. As a Study NT Ambassador and CDU Senior Buddy, he supports newcomers. His volunteer work emphasises community service, bridging academia-industry gaps, showcasing his impactful contributions to the society.

 

Mindil Beach Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Award

Matthew Grant of Larapinta uplifts Alice Springs with art, hospitality, and environmental advocacy. Managing events at the Golf Club and Cinema, promoting local art, and advocating for health, contributing to the development of an exercise park, his impact is profound. Matthew's dedication to customer service and community well-being shines, bolstering the local economy and showcasing Central Australia's vibrant arts scene and hospitality industry.

Represented by Josh Griffin

 

McDonalds NT Career Achievement Award

Yasemin Cencik of Larrakeyah advocates for inclusivity in aviation. Yasemin has been a skilled Commercial Pilot since 2019, she specialises in flying Dash 8 aircraft for Maritime surveillance, ensuring border safety. With diverse aviation roles, including remote NT communities, she's flown into 80 strips, providing vital transportation. Yasemin mentors aspiring female pilots, highlighting her significant impact on aviation diversity and safety.

 

Zip Print Sport Award

Lalwa May of Knuckey Lagoon is a passionate equestrian excelling in showjumping and mentoring youth at Darwin Horse and Pony Club. Notably, she's the first Indigenous Australian to compete internationally, winning championships and representing Australia. Overcoming financial obstacles, Lalwa fundraises for her pursuits, aspiring to compete in the Brisbane Olympics. Her dedication and leadership inspire both locally and globally within the equestrian community.

 

Aurizon Indigenous Achievement Award

Melissa Andrews-Wurramarrba of Katherine embodies the transformative power of education and resilience. As a pioneering Alawa youth, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (Education) from Macquarie University, a first for Ngukurr School graduates. Leading on the YMDAC Board and captaining the Ngukurr Bulldogs Women's AFL team, Melissa offers hope to Indigenous youth, advocating for education, health, and cultural preservation

Represented by Ashleigh Miles