VICTORIA

7NEWS Young Achiever Awards VIC

2026 Finalists

The Victorian Government Group Achievement in the Community Award:

Bannockburn CFA Junior Leadership Team is building capable, confident and community-minded young people through practical firefighting training and leadership development. Supporting members aged 11–16, the program delivers hands-on experience in safety, emergency response, teamwork and communication, alongside strong values of accountability and service. Under dedicated volunteer leadership, the brigade has strengthened youth engagement, inclusivity and community connection, with many participants progressing into senior CFA roles. Junior members actively contribute to local events, promoting fire safety awareness and community preparedness. Through its sustained impact, the program not only develops future emergency service volunteers but also enhances community resilience and fosters a culture of civic responsibility.

Live4Life Crews of Woodend are creating lasting cultural change in youth mental health. Live4Life Crews are a youth-led mental health ambassador network empowering young people across rural and regional Victoria to drive change in their communities. In 2025, about 314 volunteers aged 14–16 delivered peer-led education, events and advocacy that improved mental health literacy and reduced stigma among thousands of students. Crews build confidence, leadership and Mental Health First Aid skills, enabling young people to support themselves and others. Their impact is significant in communities facing higher suicide rates and limited access to services, with strong outcomes in help-seeking behaviours, peer support and community resilience.

Resilient Alpine Youth Squad of the Alpine Shire amplifies youth voices in policy and research. RAYS is a youth-led advocacy group formed after the 2019–2020 bushfires by a group consisting of eight young people aged 12–25, empowering young people to strengthen community resilience across the Alpine region. Their work spans mental health, climate action, disaster preparedness and transport advocacy, and includes engagement with local leaders and organisations. RAYS has trained hundreds of young people annually in accredited Mental Health First Aid, established the region’s first youth hub in decades, and delivered large-scale community events that foster connection and preparedness. They have been recognised with a Rural Youth Award.

Wattle of Melbourne empowers young people to lead and collaborate for lasting change. Wattle is a youth-led environmental and community action group. Since 2024, it has engaged over 350 participants in habitat restoration, clean-ups, workshops and community events across Melbourne. Central to its impact is the establishment of an urban nature corridor along the Birrarung, improving biodiversity while fostering youth connection to Country. Wattle combines environmental action with education and civic engagement, hosting initiatives such as a youth summit and fundraising events that have raised over $6,000 for social and environmental causes. They were recognised with the 2025 Yarra City Council Contribution to Sustainability Award.

 

Luminary Tech Visionary Award

Animesh Ghimiray of Parkville is promoting practical digital innovation. Animesh is the Co-Founder and CEO of GuardianSkies, a Victorian AgTech startup pioneering AI-driven autonomous drone systems to protect crops from bird damage. Combining computer vision, smart infrastructure, and wireless charging, his platform delivers reliable, low-touch crop protection with minimal labour. Originating from real vineyard losses, the solution has evolved through field trials into a commercially deployed system, achieving proven results across vineyards and horticulture. Animesh has secured key regulatory approvals, competitive funding, and repeat customer adoption, demonstrating strong market traction. His work promotes ethical, non-invasive pest management while improving farmer wellbeing, operational efficiency, and regional resilience.

Fei Lin (Andrew) Guo of Park Orchards is addressing elderly isolation while preserving dignity. Andrew founded Idiom, an innovative AI-powered wearable designed to support elderly Australians experiencing memory loss and digital exclusion. Using voice-first technology, real-time speech processing, and persistent memory systems, Idiom enables natural conversation, helping users manage daily tasks, stay connected, and maintain independence without complex interfaces. Inspired by personal experience and extensive community engagement, Andrew has developed functional prototypes now being piloted with local councils and residents. He has validated the solution through over 100 stakeholder consultations and is establishing partnerships with aged care providers. His work is advancing more inclusive, human-centred technology in aged care.

Kaushal Ottem of Strathtulloh is dedicated to empowering patients. Kaushal is the Founder of Neuroverse, an innovative neurotechnology platform transforming rehabilitation through AI-powered wearable devices. Combining EEG and EMG biosignals with machine learning, Neuroverse delivers real-time neurological insights, enabling clinicians and patients to track recovery with data-driven precision. Inspired by his own experience with severe injury and epilepsy, Kaushal has validated the solution through over 500 stakeholder consultations and secured early partnerships, including pilot trials with leading rehabilitation providers. His work has gained strong ecosystem recognition, including accelerator programs and awards from the University of Melbourne. By democratising access to advanced neuro-monitoring, Kaushal is shifting care from reactive observation to continuous, personalised rehabilitation.

William Cerdelli of Docklands is empowering people with ADHD. William is the founder of HEYSTU, an innovative desk companion combining a physical robot with a web app to support people with ADHD. Using behavioural strategies like time-blocking, task breakdown, and body-doubling accountability, HEYSTU helps users initiate, focus, and complete daily tasks while providing emotional support and reducing isolation. William and his team delivered 100 early robots designed and 3D printed in-house, validated through real-world use, and have secured 500 pre-orders, demonstrating strong market demand. HEYSTU was selected for the Startmate Accelerator (Winter 2025 cohort), allowing it to refine its product and digital platform with user feedback.

 

Little Gigs "Little Victorian's" Achiever Award

Harley Elliott of Sunbury is a passionate community advocate. At just 10 years old, Harley has made a meaningful impact through his fundraising and volunteer efforts. In 2025, he independently organised a campaign supporting White Ribbon Australia, running 30 kilometres in 30 days while raising over $8,000 to promote awareness of family violence. Harley demonstrated remarkable initiative by managing his own marketing, engaging schools, local councils, and the wider community, and speaking publicly to educate others. He also volunteers at a local aged care home, regularly spending time with residents and delivering gifts to brighten their lives. Harley’s determination and compassion continue to inspire.

Jack Mannix of Beechworth is a passionate 12-year-old community volunteer. Since 2023, he has raised over $8,000 for the Beechworth RSL Sub-branch through ANZAC and Poppy Appeals, actively engaging both his local and school communities while promoting awareness of veteran support services. He further demonstrated his commitment by participating in the national Ride for the Kids initiative, cycling 286 kilometres and raising over $3,100 for children with brain disorders, gaining recognition on major media platforms. Known for his initiative and determination, Jack consistently researches and supports causes he believes in. He was a recipient of the Rotary Club of Milawa-Oxley Community Achievement Award 2024.

Jacob Melvin-Evans of Leopold has shown remarkable compassion, resilience, and initiative at just 12 years old. Living with haemophilia, Jacob channels his experiences into helping others, with aspirations to work in healthcare. Jacob founded an inclusive, low-cost dance initiative focused on connection, confidence, and wellbeing, creating a safe space for young people often excluded from traditional activities. He also established a community bike group to promote fitness, friendship, and health awareness. Actively involved with St John Ambulance, where he received a Most Improved award, and recognised as a Junior Youth Leader with the Haemophilia Foundation Victoria, Jacob continues to inspire his peers through leadership and empathy.

Leon Wang of Forest Hill is a young environmental leader. Leon is an outstanding scholarship student and accomplished violinist. Excelling academically and musically, he performs widely across Melbourne while using his platform to drive social change. Leon launched a grassroots campaign to protect the endangered Powerful Owl, raising over $10,000 through concerts, fundraising initiatives, and community outreach. Demonstrating exceptional initiative, he created pop-up performances, webinars, and campaign materials, inspiring peers to join his cause. In a remarkable act of generosity, he donated all funds raised, including personal birthday contributions, to conservation efforts. Through purpose, Leon exemplifies how young people can create measurable and lasting community impact.

 

MEGT Early Career Skills Champion Award

Akwal Magek of the Western Suburbs is a creative practitioner in the making committed to strengthening Youth Engagement through arts-based programs. Beginning as a Creative Facilitator at Cohealth Arts Generator in 2018, she now works as a Project Support Officer designing inclusive, youth-led initiatives grounded in lived experience and formal training. Alongside part-time work, Akwal is completing workplace-based learning, applying trauma-informed and culturally safe approaches in practice. She founded The Radical Series, creating platforms for young creatives in Melbourne’s west to build skills and share their voices. With nearly seven years’ experience, her work reflects consistency, initiative, and long-term commitment to community participation.

Amber Leyshan of Traralgon has a strong commitment to learning. Amber is a qualified Boilermaker/Welder and Victorian Apprentice of the Year, recognised for her technical skill, leadership, and commitment to safety in the mining and energy sector. Trained at AGL Loy Yang, she gained extensive experience across high-risk industrial environments, including pressure welding, fabrication, and maintenance. Amber has continued to build her expertise through advanced certifications, including multiple AS 1796 and AS 2214 welding tickets and Welding Supervisor Ticket 10. She is mentoring apprentices, leading tasks on-site, and contributing to safer, more inclusive workplaces. Amber actively promotes trade pathways through industry events and social media.

Jiyana Pethiyagoda of Wyndham Vale is dedicated to advancing accessible and equitable justice. Jiyana is an early-career legal professional and Trainee Court Registrar with Court Services Victoria. Holding degrees in Law and International Studies, alongside Practical Legal Training, she has built strong practical experience through placements with community legal centres and international legal aid organisations. Jiyana has supported vulnerable and marginalised individuals through client engagement, legal research, and case preparation, demonstrating both technical capability and compassion. Her journey reflects resilience, overcoming early life challenges to achieve academic and professional success. She also contributes through volunteering, mentoring, and fundraising initiatives. Jiyana’s commitment drives her meaningful impact across sectors.

Stavriana Taliadoros of Mildura is a baker dedicated to excellence. Transitioning from a school-based apprenticeship into full-time employment at Sunraysia Bread and Butter Bakery, Stav combines hands-on experience with formal training through Certificate III qualifications. She has demonstrated exceptional commitment by balancing VCE studies with demanding early-morning shifts, consistently applying and refining her technical skills in a commercial environment. Her achievements include multiple podium finishes in national baking competitions and being named Victorian School-Based Apprentice of the Year, followed by recognition as a national finalist. Known for her strong work ethic, initiative and attention to detail, Stav also promotes apprenticeships as a valuable career pathway.

 

Kangan Institute Inspirational TAFE Student Award

Akwal Magek of the Western Suburbs is a Diploma of Youth Work student committed to meaningful community impact through creative practice and participation. With nearly seven years’ experience across youth work, arts facilitation, and program delivery, she has contributed to organisations including Culture Spring, Western Edge Youth Arts and the Brotherhood of St Laurence. Akwal founded The Radical Series, a youth-led initiative supporting young creatives to develop voice, confidence and connection through storytelling and collaborative projects. Recognised as the 2025 Victorian Training Student of the Year and 2024 RMIT Vocational Education Student of the Year, her pathway reflects strong initiative and sustained commitment to professional growth.

Chloe Morgan-Langhans of Pakenham is a compassionate and resilient student with a strong commitment to education. Over five years as a carer for her mother following a below-knee amputation, Chloe completed multiple qualifications, including Certificate II in Community Services, Certificate IV in Youth Work, Certificate IV in Mental Health, and a Diploma of Counselling. Despite limited transport, the tragic murder of her cousin, the loss of her grandfather on her birthday, and the recent passing of her dearest grandmother during her studies, she remained determined, completing her studies while providing ongoing care, demonstrating perseverance, empathy, and dedication throughout her journey.

Jacinta (Rosie) Tu of Knoxfield is a determined student and emerging entrepreneur. She is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Business (Management and Leadership) and has completed Certificates III and IV in Fitness and a Certificate IV in Community Services. Having grown up in out-of-home care and overcoming trauma, homelessness, and mental health challenges, Rosie has shown remarkable resilience. She founded Phase Forward Coaching, delivering holistic fitness and wellbeing programs. She has also volunteered at the Great Ocean Road Running Festival and received an Excellence Award for her achievements.

Ryan Wu of Heidelberg Heights has a passion for continuous learning. Ryan is young baking professional whose journey began while balancing school leadership, family responsibilities and multiple jobs. Completing a Certificate III in Baking through William Angliss Institute, he fast-tracked his apprenticeship and pursued competitive baking, winning the Bake Skills competition and competing in WorldSkills and the LA Judge Award. Despite limited access to professional equipment, Ryan trained independently, demonstrating resourcefulness and determination. His initiative led to international exposure at IBA Düsseldorf in Germany, expanding his expertise. Now working as a sales rep with Vanrooy Machinery, he has transitioned into a role supporting the food industry.

 

IKON Services Environmental Sustainability Award

Belle Hayman of Caulfield South is creating measurable, enduring solutions for a more sustainable and ethical future. As co-founder of FoodFilled, a youth-powered environmental movement, she transforms food waste into meaningful community support. Since 2018, Belle has grown the organisation from a grassroots project into a statewide network of 1,600+ volunteers, 160 retail partners, and 175 charities. Through innovative systems, FoodFilled has rescued over 526,000 kilograms of surplus food, reduced more than 790 tonnes of carbon emissions, and delivered over 1 million meals. Belle’s work demonstrates how environmental action can create lasting social impact.

Clancy Lester of Numurkah is on a mission to reconnect people with nature. Clancy founded Bees & Blossoms, a grassroots initiative fostering appreciation for nature and biodiversity awareness, particularly around plants and pollinators through workshops, digital storytelling, and advocacy, all while amplifying Indigenous ecological knowledge. Clancy has engaged over 6,300 participants through 120+ workshops, facilitated the creation of thousands of native bee habitats, and reached millions through digital content and media. His leadership is driven by passion, and is grounded in bringing everyone else along for the ride.. Despite challenges, he has built a values-driven platform influencing communities, educators, and policymakers. Clancy’s work is inspiring meaningful environmental stewardship and lasting impact.

Dr Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch of Craigieburn is transforming the construction industry with sustainable engineering. Dr Shannon is an Indigenous scientist and civil engineer. Since 2021, he has pioneered research on repurposing waste materials, including coffee grounds, face masks and gowns, and wood biochar, into stronger, carbon-neutral concrete, advancing circular economy practices. At Monash University, he is a Professor and Associate Dean (Indigenous) at the Faculty of Engineering and Director of Indigenous Research Excellence, leading initiatives embedding Indigenous perspectives into education and research. His work addresses critical environmental challenges such as landfill waste, resource depletion, and emissions from traditional construction methods. Dr Shannon’s work is influencing industry and academia.

Lili Xu of Thornbury is changing the sporting industry for good through impact-led innovation. Lili is the founder of LUDIS, an initiative transforming sporting waste into circular solutions. Established in 2024, LUDIS recycles used tennis and padel balls into durable shoe soles, addressing a major environmental gap. Under Lili’s leadership, over 40,000 balls have been diverted from landfill through partnerships with Tennis Victoria, clubs and national recycling organisations. Lili has built a multidisciplinary team, secured significant funding including a $50,000 Sustainability Victoria grant, been featured on ABC News, and is now working with footwear brands to scale impact.

 

Josh's Rainbow Eggs Ethical Business Award

Amara Ganglani – Treet of Camberwell is committed to ethical, impactful design. Amara is the founder of Treet, a wellbeing and environmental platform converting everyday walking into verified tree planting. Designed for teenagers, Treet promotes mental health through movement while fostering environmental responsibility. Amara ensures the app remains free and accessible, avoids appearance-focused metrics, and provides transparent verification of planted trees. User research involving over 120 teenagers informed its development, social motivation, and community impact. Since launching, Treet has successfully planted 70 trees. Amara received the 2025 Teens in Business Impact Boss award, was part of IGEN's Youth Pre-Accelerator cohort and is a 2026 Earth Prize Scholar.

Charlotte Mason - Ethical Ears of Blackburn is passionate about artistry and creating meaningful change. Charlotte founded Ethical Ears, a community-focused business that transforms handmade jewellery into a force for social impact. Since 2021, Charlotte has crafted every piece herself, managing design, production, marketing, and community engagement, while donating all profits to UNICEF to fund life-saving initiatives, including thousands of vaccinations, clean water, and nutrition programs for children worldwide. Beyond fundraising, she educates and inspires her community through markets, online content and conversations of local impact, fostering awareness, empathy, and empowerment. Charlotte navigates practical challenges, balancing school, resources, and production with resilience, demonstrating that age is no barrier to impact.

Felix Toohey - No Bull Cause of Melbourne is fostering environmental responsibility without sacrificing creativity. In 2024, Felix founded The No Bull Cause during his final year as a Bachelor of Communication Design student in RMIT. Drawing on his design background, Felix transforms unwanted clothing through repair, dyeing, and screen printing, creating unique, sustainable pieces that challenge conventional fashion consumption. His ethical approach prioritises transparency, low-impact processes, and celebration of imperfection, proving that reuse can be both creative and commercially viable. Beyond production, Felix contributes to the community through workshops, mentoring secondary school students, and participating in sustainable textiles panels. He continuously researches post-consumer design methods to scale impact responsibly.

Mona El Rahi - Henna HQ of Melbourne is focused on empowerment and storytelling. Mona is the Founder and Creative Director of Henna HQ, a business redefining henna artistry through ethical practice, cultural storytelling and community engagement. She educates artists and clients on the risks of chemical and “instant” alternatives and advocates for freshly made plant-based Henna paste, reducing the risk of harmful reactions and promoting transparency. Mona’s collaborative business model supports artists with consistent income opportunities, mentorship and professional development, fostering sustainable creative careers. Through accessible workshops delivered in partnership with councils and organisations, she creates inclusive spaces for the community members, promoting cultural connection, self-expression and mental wellbeing.

Nguyen Nguyen – Plante of Hawthorn is making sustainable gardening practical, affordable and scalable for communities. Nguyen is the founder of Plante, a sustainable technology startup tackling plastic waste in horticulture through biodegradable coconut fibre plant pots. Inspired by her experience as a gardener and her Vietnamese heritage, she developed an ethical, plantable alternative that eliminates plastic at the source. Nguyen leads product innovation, ethical supply partnerships with artisans in Vietnam, and the development of a data-driven gardening platform. Her commitment to transparency, fair sourcing and accessibility underpins the business, which has attracted over 2,000 waitlist users, secured $50,000 in funding, and launched school and nursery pilots.

 

Community Bank Doncaster East & Templestowe Village, Bendigo Bank Connecting Communities Award

Belle Hayman of Caulfield South strengthens communities through practical, people-first action. As co-founder of FoodFilled, Australia’s leading community-driven food rescue and relief organisation, she has built a network ensuring families have reliable access to food. Since 2018, Belle has grown FoodFilled from a small grassroots initiative into a thriving community of 1,600+ volunteers, 160 retail partners, and 175 charities, delivering over 1 million meals. She has strengthened relationships between local businesses and community organisations, created a model that brings people together to support one another in a tangible way, and empowered young leaders to drive lasting change.

James Henderson of Fitzroy North is helping build connected and environmentally conscious communities. In 2024, James founded Wattle, a community-driven initiative, to transform climate concern into local action. He has engaged over 300 young people in environmental restoration, education and community events, including developing the Burnley urban nature corridor along the Birrarung, where hundreds of native plants have been established. James has taken on advisory roles with the City of Yarra and Port Phillip, where he created programs empowering young people to engage in civic decision-making. He has also contributed to inclusive surf programs and was awarded the 2025 Yarra City Council Contribution to Sustainability.

Keeley Johnson of Ballan is championing systemic change. Keeley is the founder of Keeley’s Cause, a charity she launched at age 13 to support children with disabilities. Inspired by her own experience with autism, Keeley has led the distribution of over 690 iPads to children from low socioeconomic families across Australia, improving access to communication, education and independence. Operating entirely through grassroots fundraising and partnerships, her initiative connects families, reduces isolation and builds inclusive communities. Keeley’s leadership has mobilised volunteers, businesses and educators into a shared mission of support and advocacy. Now 21, she is helping ensure no child or family feels excluded.

Rumaysa Salman of Melbourne is dedicated to connecting communities to critical resources. Rumaysa is an 18-year-old Monash Law and International Relations student and promising human rights leader. She has driven impactful change through advocacy, policy and community initiatives, including co-authoring a successful AUSLAN inclusion bill and leading Melbourne’s first Multicultural Youth Careers Conference. Rumaysa has raised over $11,000 for disadvantaged students, developed legal education programs, and actively supports refugee and migrant communities through volunteering and advisory roles. She amplifies underrepresented voices and promotes equity across education, disability and youth engagement. Her work empowers young people to understand their rights and create lasting social change.

 

Turosi Food Solutions Farming and Agriculture Rising Star Award

Abbey Walsh of Boisdale is deeply committed to her community. Abbey is an eighth-generation Gippslander who has established her own beef cattle enterprise, Aisling Farm, from the ground up. After serving in the Navy, she returned to regional Victoria to pursue her lifelong passion for farming, now managing livestock while working toward breeding high-quality Angus cattle. Abbey uses her social media to educate and inspire thousands by sharing authentic, accessible insights into farm life and encouraging young people to explore agricultural careers. She contributes to local organisations, and was named a 2025 Rural Ambassador. Abbey is also a strong advocate for mental health awareness.

Georgia Turner of Tongala is helping build capability. Georgia is an emerging leader in Australia’s red meat and livestock sector, currently working as a Livestock Supply Chain Support Officer with Greenham. With hands-on experience and combined with degrees in Agriculture and Business, she brings both technical expertise and commercial insight to her role. Georgia works closely with producers to improve supply chain understanding, support informed on-farm decision-making and drive adoption of sustainable practices. As an MLA Red Meat Ambassador and graduate of the Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program, she contributes to industry education, advocacy and leadership development. Georgia is also a Young Farmers Committee member.

Malkah Lara Muckenschnabl is helping shape a more inclusive, resilient and future-focused agricultural landscape. Malkah is transforming how agriculture attracts talent, supports young leaders and strengthens regional communities. Migrating to Australia at age 10, she has drawn on lived experience to address barriers to workforce participation and inclusion. Through founding Lymbo, contributing to AgriFutures and evokeAG, and leading national programs and research, she has influenced workforce design, innovation and intergenerational collaboration across the sector. Malkah has co-authored national insight reports, delivered leadership programs, and contributed to major initiatives including the Regional Energy Accord. She is a sought-after speaker and newly appointed board member.

Zoe Carter of Maryborough has turned personal adversity into impactful industry solutions. After progressing from farm work to management roles, a severe injury shifted Zoe’s focus from on-farm work to workforce development. She founded Young Aussie Farmers, providing courses, resources, and guidance to help young people start agricultural careers, and Agriculture Jobs Auswide, a dedicated jobs platform improving workforce access across Australia. Zoe is a prominent industry advocate, speaking at conferences, panels, and events to inspire future generations, promote workforce participation, and support women in agriculture. Her efforts combine education, practical tools, and online engagement, fostering a more inclusive, informed, and resilient agricultural community nationwide.

 

Konica Minolta Career Achievement Award

Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva of Bentleigh is combining discipline, leadership, and community focus. Alexandra is a gymnast who has represented the country in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. She has also won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games, including an individual gold medal. After a distinguished 17-year international gymnastics career, she is now a Law student at Monash University and works as a law clerk, contributing to sports and employment law matters. Alexandra plays an active role in shaping sport through governance and advisory positions with Sports Integrity Australia, Gymnastics Victoria, and international bodies. In 2025, she founded Kiroi Academy, a gymnastics club already producing competitive success.

Dee Tomic of Brighton East is an epidemiologist whose research is transforming workplace health and equity. Her work spans occupational health, chronic disease, and workplace inclusion, with contributions influencing Australia's ban on artificial stone and national silicosis guidelines. Dee has pioneered new research fields including diabetes in the workplace, and led international collaborations involving millions of participants. She also leads national research on LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. With 20 first-author publications, over $1.75 million in competitive funding, and contributions to World Health Organization guidance and an advisory role with the International Diabetes Federation, her impact is academic, clinical, and policy-shaping.

Josh Nguyen of Parkville is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and community leader, who is passionate about driving meaningful changes in mental health systems, especially for marginalised communities. Migrating from Vietnam a decade ago, he is now the founder of a psychology clinic and leads PhD research using AI to predict and prevent suicide in youth. His research work is featured in the world’s leading journals and secured over $200,000 in awards. He also co-chairs the early career group of the International Association for Suicide Prevention (Western Pacific Region) and serves on the Victorian Department of Health’s Multicultural Health Advisory Group.

Sarah Tan of Balwyn North is a passionate advocate for diversity and innovation at the frontiers of tech. Sarah is a product designer, founder, and technology innovator specialising in Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Artificial Intelligence. She has delivered impactful digital solutions for global leaders including Google, Meta, and Atlassian, with her work reaching millions of users. Recognised with nine national and international awards for her innovative contributions to tech and design, Sarah is also a sought-after speaker, presenting at major global conferences such as SXSW, Global AI Summit and more.

 

Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award

Mursal Sadat of Carlton North is dedicated to empowering refugee communities and advancing gender equality. Fatima is a co-founder of Afghanistan United Inc. A former member of the Afghan Women’s National Soccer Team, she uses sport as a platform for inclusion, leadership and social change. Fatima has worked extensively with organisations including the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and Centre for Multicultural Youth, supporting newly arrived migrants and amplifying refugee voices through public speaking and community programs. She has led initiatives enabling Afghan women’s participation in sport and advocacy, while promoting education and leadership opportunities. She is a Multicultural Awards finalist and recipient of multiple leadership awards.

Julian Tran of Melbourne exemplifies a commitment to scalable, long-term social impact. Julian is a 16-year-old social entrepreneur and founder of the SleepWarm Foundation, driving innovative, sustainable solutions to global homelessness. He designed a cost-effective sleeping bag using upcycled textile waste, diverting over 1,500kg from landfill while distributing more than 32,000 units across four continents. Under his leadership, the foundation has raised over $21,000 and mobilised 120 volunteers across 13 countries, establishing eight international chapters. Julian has also led projects in Vietnam, including building 15 homes and a school library for disadvantaged communities. A dedicated mentor and volunteer, he also supports young people through education initiatives.

Mackenzie Li of Mount Waverley is dedicated to advancing education, health and gender equity through youth empowerment and advocacy. She is the Founder of The Aletheia Project—a youth-led organisation that connects young people globally in international chapters through education and community-led programs, building health literacy and advocacy. She also founded Brighter Minds, a free education initiative operating in seven countries, supporting thousands of underprivileged students and helping many secure scholarships that transform long-term educational outcomes. Alongside eight years of service with Red Cross and leadership roles across multiple organisations, Mackenzie has contributed over $50,000 in fundraising and built systems that empower young people and strengthen communities.

Montana Nicoloutsopoulos of Melbourne is focused on creating sustainable pathways for individuals often overlooked by traditional services. Montana co-developed SAMMs Professional Services, a social-impact clinical program for individuals with complex needs, embedded within employment and community services. With over two decades of service, she has supported individuals experiencing complex challenges, including trauma, addiction, homelessness and justice involvement. Montana has led the design of an innovative stabilisation-first model that integrates mental health, clinical care and social support, delivering thousands of sessions and achieving measurable outcomes in recovery, housing access and justice diversion. Drawing on professional expertise and lived experience, she prioritises dignity and long-term capability.