TASMANIA

Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards

2026 Finalists

Bentleys Tasmania Future Impact Award - Championing Sustainability

Atique ul hassan of Hobart advocates for a sustainable and future-ready energy sector. Atique is an electrical engineer who delivers innovative, data-driven solutions to advance sustainability and energy efficiency. With over three years’ experience in solar system design, installation and commissioning, he has implemented IoT monitoring and predictive maintenance frameworks that enhance performance and reduce operational costs. His research, published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, provides practical models to support renewable energy adoption, particularly for small and medium enterprises in rural and regional communities. Atique’s work contributes to improved grid integration, system reliability and long-term energy resilience, aligning with Tasmania’s clean energy vision.

Dekota Mark of Mount Nelson is a passionate leader in marine climate action. Dekota founded Art For The Sea, where she uses creative practice to make ocean conservation accessible, delivering initiatives such as seaweed workshops, youth artist mentorships and large-scale public murals that communicate complex environmental issues. Dekota has successfully collaborated with local government, NGOs, scientists and industry partners to deliver impactful programs, including projects with the City of Hobart and Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund. She provides environmental education in regional and island communities and empowers young people to participate in climate solutions. Through inclusive engagement, she is fostering the next generation of environmental leaders.

Ruby Fox of South Hobart is passionate about delivering innovative, system-level solutions that integrate environmental, social and governance outcomes. Ruby led the design and implementation of a refillable milk tap program, reducing single-use waste while improving affordability and access to sustainable food for students. Securing funding through the City of Hobart Youth Climate Action Fund, Ruby collaborated with university teams, local producers and community partners to deliver lasting impact. Ruby also actively advocates for sustainable systems through panels, forums and student engagement, influencing behavioural change and broader climate conversations. She fosters a culture of shared responsibility, empowering young people to lead meaningful sustainability action.

Ryan Stallard of Hobart is helping build a more transparent, resilient and future-focused food system. Recognised as a sustainability leader across the Oceania region, he drives ESG innovation in the aquaculture sector. At Skretting Australia, Ryan has embedded sustainability into core functions, strengthening governance, risk management and supply chain transparency. He played a key role in achieving ASC Feed Standard certification—a national first—while developing procurement frameworks that improved low-risk sourcing outcomes. Ryan has also enhanced environmental reporting systems, supporting measurable emissions reductions and credible, data-driven decision-making. He also works closely with industry stakeholders to build capability and support evolving sustainability requirements.

Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award

Jack Oates Pryor is helping shape a more inclusive, participatory and sustainable future for education across lutruwita. Jack has been elected for a second term as the President of the Tasmanian University Student Association, representing more than 30,000 students. Through relational and values-driven leadership, he has led significant organisational reform, strengthening governance, financial sustainability, and the delivery of student services, events, and advocacy. His leadership in the “Students as Partners” initiative provided a transformative model embedding students as co-creators in university decision-making. Jack also actively engages with government, media, and community organisations to amplify student voices. He is a committed community leader, volunteering for and serving diverse student needs.

Makayla Atherton is passionate about youth development and community safety. With extensive involvement in surf lifesaving and mentoring programs, she has supported hundreds of young people, particularly those facing disadvantage or disability. As Club Captain and Life Saving Manager at Kingston Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Makayla has delivered over 500 patrol hours, coordinated major safety operations, and led a critical life-saving rescue. She has driven inclusive initiatives such as Starfish Nippers and founded the Water Warriors program, improving water confidence and safety for children across the community. Recognised with multiple awards, Makayla is creating lasting positive change across Southern Tasmania.

Madi Clark and Emily Pregnell co-founded The Mum Connection Tasmania, building meaningful connections for mothers across the state. Together, they have grown a rapidly expanding community supporting over 2,200 women. Driven by shared lived experience, they’ve created an inclusive and accessible network that reduces isolation, strengthens wellbeing, and supports women through every stage of motherhood. Through online engagement, wellness events, and community gatherings, they have fostered a strong sense of belonging and encouraged mums to share their stories and strengths. They also lead partnerships and fundraising initiatives that give back to the community, volunteering significant time each week to build a trusted, supportive platform.

Tiarna West of Wynyard has a deep commitment to strengthening community wellbeing. A proud Ngarabal and Biripi woman, Tiarna is an accomplished surf lifesaver and community leader with 19 years of dedicated voluntary service across Tasmania. Beginning as a Nipper, she has progressed into roles including Patrol Captain, Director of Lifesaving, and Search and Rescue responder, contributing to the safety of beachgoers. Tiarna has mentored and trained emerging leaders, fostering confidence and long-term capability within Surf Life Saving. Beyond frontline service, she has influenced youth engagement and operational strategies through state advisory roles and contributed to mental health advocacy with headspace and local youth initiatives.

Home Base Courage to Grow Award

Emma Horne of Bridgewater is a resilient and compassionate registered nurse. A mother of a child with complex health needs, Emma advocated tirelessly for her daughter’s care while pursuing her nursing degree. She also took on the role of kinship carer for her nephew and niece, demonstrating extraordinary dedication to her family. Despite these challenges, she excelled in her career, securing a full-time position at the Royal Hobart Hospital and stepping into leadership early as an Acting Assistant Nurse Unit Manager. Emma is committed to continuous professional development, pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Acute Care. Her personal and professional growth showcases her determination and commitment.

Heidi White is a passionate and resilient young leader committed to improving health, wellbeing and community connection in the Huon Valley. After overcoming significant personal adversity growing up, she has achieved key qualifications in fitness and is completing her Certificate IV in Personal Training, alongside extensive additional certifications. Heidi delivers inclusive fitness programs for seniors, supports youth and families through community initiatives, and contributes to volunteer development pathways into employment. She has also raised funds and awareness for mental health through endurance events. In her role as Lead Coordinator and Community Ambassador for Hilltop Hike, Heidi has demonstrated strong leadership and growing influence.

Henry Wolf of Hobart is a compassionate young leader. Henry overcome poverty, trauma and cultural displacement after migrating from the Philippines. Despite significant challenges, including family instability and becoming the primary provider at a young age, Henry excelled in education, graduating Year 12 with exceptional attendance and multiple awards. He achieved Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards, maintained steady employment in hospitality with progression into leadership, and actively contributed to school and community initiatives. Now living independently, Henry is commencing the University of Tasmania’s University Preparation Program, with aspirations across multiple career pathways. His achievements demonstrate and a strong commitment to building a positive future.

Shakira Robertson of Hobart is a resilient and inspiring advocate who has transformed personal loss into powerful community action. Following the tragic loss of her mother to domestic violence, she assumed primary care for her younger siblings while continuing to build her career in early childhood education. Shakira co-founded the not-for-profit Her Strength Her Story, delivering support initiatives for domestic violence victims, including the inaugural Butterflies and Boots Gala Ball, which provides care, empowerment and connection for women in need. She has advocated for systemic change, including campaigning for “Jacqui’s Law,” and has spoken with policymakers. She’s been recognised through state volunteering and human rights awards.

MAIB Excellence in Leadership Award

Alyssa Seckinger Crow of South Hobart is a leader driving practical, youth-led environmental action. In 2025, she founded the Student Science Communicators Network, building a powerful female-led leadership team that has engaged over 800 young people across Tasmania to develop science communication and leadership skills through conservation events and workshops. She also established Young Ocean Innovators in 2023, which has reached 1,800+ youth through climate summits, workshops, and hands-on projects. Alyssa has led national campaigns including the People’s Blockade of the world’s largest coal port, mobilising over 7,000 participants. By creating accessible spaces for young people to lead and connect with experts working on solutions, Alyssa inspires a new generation of capable environmental leaders.

Alyssia Kennedy is building capacities. Alyssia founded Life After School, an initiative supporting young Tasmanians aged 15-25 as they transition from school to adulthood. The program addresses critical gaps by offering practical workshops and one-on-one support in areas such as employment rights, taxation, housing, and financial independence. Through collaboration with schools, employers, and community organisations, Alyssia helps youth build confidence and connect with opportunities, empowering them to stay and grow in Tasmania. The initiative has already reached 16+ communities and gained national attention. Alyssia’s leadership has been pivotal in the program’s success. Her goal is to expand it across rural and remote Australia.

Ben Dudman of Westbury is a dedicated advocate of LGBTQIA+ rights and mental health reform. Ben was a key member of the Let Us Give campaign, securing changes to blood donation eligibility for gay and bisexual men. He is the youngest and first openly gay member of Meander Valley Council, promoting inclusion and community connection. He had also led local initiatives, such as the Meander Valley Economic Development Forum, and serves on multiple community boards. With a background in law and a commitment to continuous learning, Ben is deeply involved in local events and support programs. His advocacy efforts continue to positively impact the LGBTQIA+ community and rural Tasmania.

Elise Bagorski of Glenorchy is dedicated to building a strong, inclusive arts ecosystem. Elise is the owner and General Manager of Big Job Productions. Under her leadership, Big Job Productions has become the fastest-growing theatre company in the state, engaging over 2,500 people through performances, workshops, and community events. Elise’s youth-led model champions inclusivity, accessibility, and professionalism, creating safe creative spaces for young people to learn and grow. She is deeply committed to ensuring Tasmanian youth have opportunities to develop their artistic skills locally, removing barriers to access. Elise contributes to the state’s cultural future through mentoring, providing real-world knowledge in directing, performance, and technical theatre.

Rhianna Farnan of Hobart is committed to supporting women and building connections. Rhianna is a pioneering leader in Tasmania’s finance sector, founder, and Director of Derwent Finance, the state’s largest mortgage broking firm. Starting the business at 19, she has grown it into a national success, offering flexible employment opportunities, especially for women. Rhianna advocates for financial education, reaching millions through TikTok, and has significantly impacted mental health awareness with her "Let’s Be There" event, raising $30,000 for suicide prevention. As State President of the Finance Association of Tasmania, she ensures the state is represented at a national level. Rhianna also leads mentorship programs.

Motors Sports Award

Maddison Brooks of Howrah is committed to growing women’s hockey. Maddi served as the captain of the Jillaroos, Australia’s U21 Women’s Hockey team last year. In 2025, she led the team to a victorious campaign at the Four Nations tournament in Berlin and captained them at the Junior World Cup in Chile, where they finished 7th. Maddi also contributes to the Tasmanian sporting community, coaching at the Tigers Hockey Academy and supporting Cricket Tasmania’s game-day activations and school-based programs. Her leadership on and off the pitch has earned her recognition as one of Australia’s top young players. Maddi actively engages with the community to grow the sport.

Nash Walker is a dedicated and hardworking basketball player. Nash has represented Australia six times across U15, U16, U17, and U19 teams. Hailing from a rural town, Nash has been an inspiration to young athletes, proving that with determination, goals are achievable regardless of background. He has played for Basketball Tasmania, captained several teams, and won awards like Junior Athlete of the Year. Nash has also coached local juniors and held clinics in schools. He is currently at Marquette University in Milwaukee in the United States on a scholarship, where he continues to pursue his dream of playing basketball at the highest level.

Olivia Yeates of Latrobe is a driven athlete and mentor. Olivia proudly represented Australia in the Women’s Quadruple Scull at the 2025 U23 World Rowing Championships in Poznan, where her team finished 6th in the A Final. After excelling at the NSW and Australian National Championships, Olivia was selected for the Australian team. She trained at the National Training Centre and relocated to Queensland to prepare for the event, balancing her rowing commitments with university studies. Olivia received the prestigious Flavia Gobbo OAM Bursary in 2025. She contributes to the community by mentoring younger athletes at both the Tasmanian Institute of Sport and Tasmanian University Rowing Club.

River Mallam of Blackmans Bay is a passionate trampoline athlete. In 2025, River secured two Australian Championship titles at the Australian Gymnastics National Championships. He won the Junior International Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline and the Junior International Men’s Synchronised Trampoline events. He represented Australia at the 31st FIG World Age Championships in Spain, earning a bronze medal in the Men’s Double-Mini Trampoline. As a member of Kingborough Gymsports, he supports local competitions as a judge and participates in fundraising initiatives to assist with equipment upgrades and travel costs for athletes. River also holds a scholarship with Gymsports Management and trains with the Gymnastics Tasmania High Performance Squad.

Raw Strength Sports in the Community Award

Chiya Guff Run Club - Aayush Shrestha & Anish Adhikari is dedicated to building spaces where people are seen, welcomed, and empowered through sport. Chiya Guff Run Club started as a small social initiative where people meet to run and share tea and conversation. The Club has grown to become a structured and respected running group that participates in events and delivers organised runs, promoting inclusivity, mental health awareness, and physical wellbeing. The grassroots running community blends fitness, friendship, and cultural connection and is open to people of all backgrounds, fitness levels, and cultures. Aayush and Anish lead the group with event promotion, logistics coordination, digital engagement, and community representation.

Emily Newman of Rokeby is a dedicated athlete, volunteer, and advocate for inclusion in sport. In 2025, she represented Tasmania at the AFL Inclusion Carnival, playing a leadership role with the Allies team. She contributes to Lauderdale Football Club and Sorell Cricket Club through roles including goal umpiring, statistics, and photography. Emily has also fostered a relationship between Lauderdale and Dodges Ferry Football Club to support her football development. She has adapted her About Me resource to highlight her sporting versatility and support coaches to better understand and include athletes with disabilities, while continuing to advocate for greater access, visibility, and meaningful opportunities in sport.

Matthew French of Tinderbox is dedicated to developing the sport of trampolining and promoting a positive team culture. Matthew has over 15 years of experience in trampolining at both State and National levels. He has represented Australia at World Championships and World Cups in multiple disciplines, including Double Mini Trampoline, Individual and Synchronised Trampoline. As an Australian Team Captain, Matthew’s leadership contributed to a silver medal in the Men’s Double Mini team event. He also supports the trampoline community by organising fundraising events, serving as a Tasmanian Judging Coordinator, and mentoring teammates. Matthew’s resilience through both the physical and mental challenges of sport inspires younger athletes.

Sharna Thompson of Lutana is creating a positive impact in the community through sport and education. Sharna has excelled both as a basketball player and coach. She captains the Hobart Chargers and Island Hustle league, earning League MVP and All-Star Five selections. She represented the University of Tasmania at the 3x3 World Cup in Brazil which she also captained. As a coach, Sharna led the Glenorchy Under 12 Junior Boys to an undefeated season and state championship in 2025. She also coaches at Swisherr Hoops Academy. Sharna balances her Bachelor of Education studies and work as a relief teacher. She is committed to giving back and inspiring young athletes, particularly women.

Stanton Burtt of Devonport, at just 14 is a powerful example of resilience, leadership, and heart. Excelling in Taekwondo, soccer, and futsal, he earned his first black belt at 9 and recently achieved his 2nd black belt through dedication and perseverance. Stanton mentors younger students, inspiring confidence and discipline. He has represented Tasmania in national futsal and gives back as a coach with Devonport Junior Soccer Club and referee with Football Tasmania. Despite living with hip dysplasia, Stanton continues to push forward. As a youth leader and mental health advocate, he is committed to uplifting others and creating lasting positive change.

Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award

Annie McCann is Senior Content Editor at Tourism Tasmania. She leads a storytelling team that produces content for DiscoverTasmania.com.au, social media and eDM to inspire travellers around the world. Annie commissions and edits editorial content, including with media partners like Broadsheet and Qantas, and has helped shape Tasmania's distinctive tone of voice. A believer in inclusive and sustainable tourism, Annie has developed accessible audio guides, led Marketing Masterclasses for regional operators on sustainable storytelling and Off Season promotion, and produced a Travelling Mindfully content series. She also leads Tourism Tasmania's Corporate Choir, Tourhythm Jazzmania, raising funds for Hobart City Mission.

Reebecca O'Malley is committed to promoting exceptional service. Reebecca is the Business Development Manager at Coal River Coaches and Love Tasmania Tours, recognised for her transformative impact. Rising from an operational role, she has secured partnerships, expanded international distribution through online platforms and developed premium touring products that diversify revenue streams. She is currently spearheading new ventures, including an educational touring division, demonstrating strong entrepreneurial capability. Reebecca is a key industry connector, actively contributing through trade engagement, board leadership with YATEC Tasmania and advocacy for accessible tourism. Her collaborative approach is helping position Tasmania as a compelling, year-round destination for domestic and international markets.

Tim Harmsen of Hobart successfully revived the annual Tasmanian multisport event – the Winter Challenge and has led it to becoming regarded as a flagship Tasmanian Off Season event and tourism drawcard. By rebuilding this event, he has reshaped what winter means for Australians, while generating meaningful economic impact for regional communities. Tim’s initiatives include women specific training programs, family categories, and more recently, inclusion of the official Egg and Spoon Racing National Championships, to ensure everyone feels that they belong at the event. His commitment to mental health awareness, community connection and accessible participation has shaped a unique event culture.

Younique Stays - Emily Elmer is helping elevate Tasmania’s reputation as a premium, year-round destination. Emily is the Founder and CEO of Younique Stays, an award-winning accommodation services company managing over 130 properties on Tasmania’s East Coast. Under her leadership, the business has achieved significant growth, delivering $2.25M in revenue and setting new benchmarks in service quality, operational systems and property presentation. Emily has built a strong regional workforce, championing local employment, career development and industry sustainability. Her innovative, data-led marketing campaigns have successfully driven off-season demand, generating substantial bookings and supporting the broader tourism economy. She has implemented environmentally sustainable practices and has built strong community partnerships.

St Lukes Healthier Communities Award

Ashleigh Hulse of George Town is committed to supporting vulnerable children and young people. Through her roles at Glenhaven and Eskleigh, she has helped implement structured systems, enhancing staff rostering and establishing consistent routines that promote stability and quality care. Her leadership is defined by empathy, clear communication and a strong focus on team development, mentoring staff and inspiring future leaders within the sector. Ashleigh actively promotes trauma-informed practice and ongoing professional development, ensuring her approach remains responsive and effective. Through advocacy, collaboration and a dedication to long-term outcomes, she is making a lasting impact on the wellbeing of children, families and the broader community.

Dr Abigail de Waard of Hobart is passionate about equitable healthcare. Abigail works as a doctor with the Tasmanian Health Service providing care across multiple specialties at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Her work spans acute, maternity and community-based services such as Hospital at Home. Dr Abigail contributes to research in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and delivers health education to migrant and refugee communities through The Water Well Project. She is involved in mentoring the next generation of doctors. She has special interests in women's health and improving access for Tasmanians from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds and rural areas.

Emily Gamez is committed to enhancing health and wellbeing across Tasmania. She is a volunteer and nursing student focused on creating safe, supportive environments where communities can thrive. With over eight years of service and 500 volunteer hours, she has supported vulnerable Tasmanians through St Vincent de Paul, Edmund Rice Camps, and Children’s University, and contributed to broader initiatives, including the Mother’s Day Classic, Relay for Life, and the Glenorchy Jobs Fair. She supports youth mentoring, educational outreach, and programs that reduce isolation and build resilience. Her impact is recognised through awards, including Glenorchy Young Citizen of the Year and Vinnies Youth Volunteer of the Year.

Mia Shinkfield of West Hobart advocates for equitable, patient-centred and inclusive healthcare. Mia has overcome specific learning challenges to excel academically. Now a passionate pharmacist and leader, she leads within the Tasmanian and National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Associations, where she revitalised mentorship programs and contributed to long-term strategic planning. Mia has championed inclusive initiatives, including culturally safe mentorship pathways and a nationally recognised burns first aid education campaign developed in partnership with leading health organisations. Her work promotes accessibility, public health awareness and stronger community engagement. Currently completing her internship in a regional pharmacy, she is focused on expanding scope of practice and improving healthcare access.

TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award

Jade Hornsby of Old Beach is driving meaningful change through leadership and lived experience. Jade is actively involved with organisations including Empowered Me, Children and Young People with Disabilities Australia, and Association for Children with Disability Tasmania, where they contribute to national advocacy efforts, education reform and inclusive program development. Their achievements include co-designing accessible resources, supporting youth engagement initiatives and co-leading the Focus on Ability Film Festival. Jade also provides valuable input through advisory roles, helping shape safer and more inclusive environments for young people. Overcoming personal challenges, they bring empathy and resilience, mentoring peers and championing the voices of young people with disability.

Lily Gatehouse is an inspiring young leader and advocate in the disability sector. A 9-year-old living with rare vision impairment, she is making a meaningful impact through community performances, media engagement and peer mentoring. Lily has performed at major events alongside organisations such as Variety Tasmania and the Royal Australian Navy Band, using her platform to promote inclusion and challenge perceptions of disability. A national winner of the Braille House Braille Literacy Challenge, she is passionate about learning and helping others develop braille skills and confidence. Lily empowers both vision-impaired and sighted communities, demonstrating that barriers can be overcome with determination and support.

Maggie Lucas has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the disability sector. Maggie has been volunteering for three years with Young Leaders of Tasmania. She serves as a peer-mentor across multiple programs, including Holiday Buddies, Saturday Social Buddies, and the Dark Mofo Access Program, supporting young people with disability to access community events and build confidence. Maggie has been diagnosed with Developmental Language Disorder and specific learning disorders. She has been recognised with school citizenship awards, house captain roles, and sports achievements, reflecting her dedication, reliability, and team spirit. Maggie also contributes to accessibility training and media advocacy, inspiring peers and making a positive impact.

Rosie Putland is a proudly disabled accessibility leader from Burnie, driving systemic change across Australia. As co-founder and principal consultant at Modality Co, she works with organisations to embed accessibility into digital systems from the ground up. Alongside her role as Community Engagement Coordinator at Children and Young People with Disability Australia, Rosie leads national campaigns and creates short-form videos that translate complex policy into accessible, engaging content. She is also the host of the Crip Culture podcast and co-founder of the Tasmanian Accessibility Community. Through her work, Rosie redistributes resources and champions disability-led change to build more inclusive systems.

Take a minute Mental Health and Wellbeing Award

Brittney Siedentopf of Hobart is a justice professional, youth leader, and mental health champion whose impact spans corrections, community safety, and national training. As a Family Violence Specialist Case Manager with Tasmania Prison Services, Brittney delivers evidence-based rehabilitation programs using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed practice. One of the few qualified Mental Health First Aid Instructors at the prison, she also trains Correctional Officers recognising mental health illnesses and supporting employees. As Commanding Officer of 501 Squadron, Australian Air Force Cadets, she mentors young people aged 13–18 across Southern Tasmania. In 2025, she was named Australian Air Force Cadets National Instructor of the Year, presented at Australian Defence Force Academy. ...Congratulations Brittney

Kalani West of Wynyard is a proud Birpai and Ngarabal woman whose lived experience with anxiety and developmental delay has shaped a powerful career in youth mental health advocacy. A founding member of the headspace Youth Reference Group from 2020–2023, Kalani contributed to service co-design reaching over 100 students across the North-West Coast. Through Waratah–Wynyard Council Youth Leaders and Live Well Tasmania, she has delivered community events from drive-in movie nights to the Sisters Beach Emergency Preparedness Expo, attended by 60 residents. In 2026, she was invited to join the Mental Health Council Youth Advisory Group. A qualified Bronze Medallion holder and Certificates II and III in Community Services recipient, Kalani has contributed over 860 hours to her community. ...Congratulations Kalani

Sumaiya Shahreen works at the Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania and is passionate about empowering young people, migrants, and individuals from humanitarian backgrounds. She actively supports mental health and wellbeing for diverse communities through programs such as Bridge to Belonging and Culture to Thrive, creating safe and inclusive spaces for all. From 2025 till now, Sumaiya supported more than 110 individuals from diverse backgrounds to access mental health support, helping challenge stigma and encourage open conversations. As a young multicultural individual herself, she continues to advocate for youth, migrants, and people from humanitarian backgrounds, working to remove barriers and ensure everyone has the opportunity to live a stable, healthy and fulfilling life.