NORTHERN TERRITORY

Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards

2022 Finalists

One Rail Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Jahdai Vigona, 20 of Driver is passionate about giving back to community and strengthening the social and emotional health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He has worked on several projects related to mental health, youth, gambling and alcohol and other drugs. Jahdai has presented at the International Men’s Day Youth Forum, participated in the Consumer Health Forum and facilitated the 2021 NT Youth Health Summit. Jahdai is an appointed member of the NT Youth Round Table and in 2021 he received the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year Award.

Kirsten Anderson, 29 of Borroloola is working to bridge the gap. Kirsten is a proud Kija/Gooniyandi/Bunuba woman working as a Remote Family Safety and Support Worker at the Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities. She is a member of the CARE Champion The CMSA Program; the community child safety network group, MACCST; and the Borroloola Gulf Show Society. Kirsten is currently completing her Diploma of Counselling and runs both a contracting mustering business and mobile food van business.

 

Patrick Coleman, 21 of Tennant Creek is a community role model. Patrick is a proud Warumungu young man working as a Community Coach with the John Moriarty Foundation Football (soccer) Program. He is a volunteer coach for under-13 and 16 AFL teams and plays AFL for YDU Football Club. As the 2021 Barkly Representative on the NT Youth Round Table, Patrick discussed proactive alternative education, attendance, and engagement strategies.

 

 

Somerville Community Service Award
Maythan Long, 26 of Daguragu is encouraging positive changes for his people. Maythan works as a male engagement officer at the Kalkarindji and Daguragu Child and Family Centre. He uses his love of sports to design sports programs for families and children, his passion to design cultural wellbeing workshops and his self-determination towards closing the gap. Maythan currently studies Certificate III in Community Services.

 

Narpinder Pal Singh, 28 of Wanguri is dedicated to creating happiness in the community. Narpinder has been volunteering with Sikh Family Food Van for two years whilst having full-time studies and a part-time job. The charity distributes fresh homemade food for free to local people in need, including the homeless and Indigenous. He has also been nominated for Study NT International Student Volunteer of the Year Award.

 

Sunny Liu, 25 of Brinkin passionately serves the local and international communities in Darwin. Sunny is the Vice-Chair of Kindness Shake Inc., a charity that has handed out over 6,000 free meals, assisted 800 individuals and raised more than $200,000 in grants and donations. An international student, she is also a committee member of the Multicultural Council NT and 2022 Youth Advisory Group at Headspace Darwin.

 

 

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
Ebony Anderson, 27 of Palmerston is the owner of Ebony Rose Hair Design, a boutique hair salon that has been operating since 2019. The salon has nine staff members, pays well above award wages and focuses on training and upskilling their employees. They offer a 30-minute hair colouring aftercare education session to new clients, and have a strong repeat customer base and consistently good reviews.

 

Samantha Price, 25 of Coconut Grove opened Royal Existence Dance Academy in October 2018 and offers seven different styles of dance to children aged 2 to 18 years old. They hold over 55 classes weekly. As of 2021, Royal Existence has 13 staff members who share their passion for dance with over 330 young people. During Covid lockdowns, Samantha navigated the business to ensure her staff could keep their jobs.

 

Jeremy Lassemillante, 28 of Rosebery founded E3 Productions, a local events management and production company, in 2015. It is now a touring level organisation, dealing with national and international acts. E3 is the official production partner of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra and the in-house audio-visual supplier of DoubleTree Hilton Hotels in NT. They strive to be an employer of choice and provide career pathways to students.

 

Mindil Beach Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Award
Anneliese Grazioli, 27 of Stuart Park began in the hospitality industry as a food and beverage trainee and progressed to leading teams at Hot Tamale and Snapper Rocks in Darwin. In 2015, she developed a passion for bartending and the bar industry. Anneliese has since taken a leadership role in the Darwin Bartending Group and Territory Bartending in general. She was recently recognised in the Drinks World T25 Bartenders, and has just opened her own cocktail bar, Hanky Panky Lounge.

 

Chloe Quill, 19 of Parap is a guest service agent at the Mercure and Novotel Darwin Airport Resort. She helps guests check in and out and gives tourists directions on where to go and what to do. Chloe is a proud Larrakia young woman with strong knowledge of Darwin and surroundings. She advocates for her culture and is very supportive of initiatives to develop an Indigenous training academy. She has expressed interest in leading cultural tours within the resort, scheduled to begin mid-2022.

 

Taylah King, 25 of Darwin was a kitchen team member at Phat Mango and is now a chef at the Townsville RAAF Base. In 2020, she started the discussion about Cupcake Day, which resulted in the Darwin Convention Centre donating 200 cupcakes to an RSPCA fundraiser. She has hosted a master cooking class for students. Taylah made the top 10 finalists of the Golden Chefs Awards, representing NT. She was a 2021 International Women’s Day NT representative.

 

 

Zip Print Sport Award
Danté Rodrigues, 20 of Driver is an athlete who has been putting NT on the map in the Muay Thai world. Dante is the only Aboriginal athlete to be selected for the national kickboxing team and was also the only athlete to represent NT in the 2018 World Championships in Italy. He is currently ranked as number 2 kickboxer worldwide and uses his large social media following as a voice to raise awareness for mental health in the community.

 

Emma Stark, 15 of Wagaman plays in the U18 Girls Saint Mary’s football side and umpires at Men’s Premier League level in the NT Football League. She is part of the NT Thunder Academy and 2022 Cazaly’s NTFL representative squad. Emma also plays and officiates netball and AFL. In December 2021, Emma finished Year 10 and received five academic excellence awards and the O’Loughlin Sports Award.

 

Patrick Coleman, 21 of Tennant Creek is a Warumungu young man who works as a Community Coach with the John Moriarty Foundation Football Program. He plays AFL for YDU Football Club and volunteers as a coach for under-13 and 16 AFL teams. Patrick is the 2021 Barkly Representative on the NT Youth Round Table. He uses his leadership to encourage young people to attend and engage in school.

 

 

Spirit Super Create Change Award
Alina Biju, 20 of Berrimah founded the Women’s Collection for Innovation and Change at Charles Darwin University, a student group aimed at empowering women to achieve their dreams. Alina was previously secretary at NT Youth Round Table 2021 and NT delegate at Australian Youth Affairs Coalition. She created “Keep It Lit NT”, a digital platform with content on health issues and resources for young people.

 

Malia Ford, 28 of Darwin was a founding member and Vice Chair of Two Two One Mental Health Charity. She helped establish the Girls Only Night’s Youth Program, providing vulnerable young women a safe space, created positive relationships, and enhanced health and positive decision-making. This program provides consistent, stable and strong female role models to youth of all backgrounds, this empowerment approach has resulted in positive growth in many of the attendees.

 

Paige Horrigan, 18 of Palmerston helps plan innovative events, including the first Pride event in Palmerston history. They have also managed spaces dedicated to supporting the youth and LGBTQI+ people. They worked with organisations like Rainbow Territory and helped fight against discriminatory legislation. Paige has taken Stage 2 Legal Studies and has written external inquiry on the rights of LGBTQ+ people in the Australian legal system. They aim to create greater awareness and change surrounding gender and sexual diversity.

 

 

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award
Crystal-Rose Furber-Swan, 19 of Alice Springs has been working at Alice Springs Language Centre for three years as an Arrernte teacher. She teaches the Arrernte language, the local Aboriginal Language in Alice Springs, to over 530 children each week. Crystal-Rose also contributed to reviving Pertame, a severely endangered language, in her community. She has been involved with Arrernte workshops with elders and has helped organise NAIDOC celebrations.

 

Emily Ford, 23 of Darwin is an educator who created posters, learning materials, assisted in developing a dictionary and developed an Instagram account that focuses on her language, Rak Mak Mak Marranunggu. Developing the materials is essential for members of her clan who were affected by systemic issues and as well as the Stolen Generation, enabling them to find connection and learn the language of their family. The content is also effective for young children in her clan as well as other who would like to learn an Indigenous language.

 

Jordon Briston, 26 of Wulagi started his teaching career in the community of Naiyu and worked across all year levels. In 2021, Jordon was proactive in reopening the remote outstation school in Woodycuplidya. He became a joint teacher between SFX and Woodycuplidya School. Jordon aspires to establish a full-time school at Woodycuplidya Outstation to ensure children in remote, isolated outstations have access to mainstream education.

 

 

Colemans Contracting & Earthmoving Agriculture Award
Eleanor Fordyce, 24 of Katherine is a Livestock Extension Officer within the Agricultural Branch of the NT Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade. She helps provide support to pastoralists through research, extension, advice and providing opportunities to build capacity with their business. Eleanor recently took the roles of Chair of the NT Government Young Leaders Group and Secretary of the Katherine Pastoral Industry Advisory Committee.

 

Amy Kirke, 28 of Lyons is a marine biologist. Amy moved from Perth to NT to continue her PhD, studying the biology and ecology of sharks caught in commercial fisheries. She developed “Let’s Go Fishing”, a game that simulates fishing and fishing management. The program has been trialled and run at several Darwin schools. In 2020, Amy won the Agrifutures Rural Women Award for NT.

 

Kari Moffat, 27 of Woolner is an Animal Welfare Assurance Manager for AUSTREX. She is a founding member and Chair of the Young Livestock Exporters Network. She is an Executive with the Queensland Livestock Exporters Association. In 2014, Kari became Head Stockwomen aboard a live export vessel destined for Indonesia, overseeing 15 voyages. In 2021, Kari was named ‘Nutrien Livestock Exporter Young Achiever of the Year’.

 

 

NT Government Young Carers Award
Natasha Evans, 25 of Gunn is a full-time family carer and believes if young people are given a safe creative space to be themselves, then anything is possible. She is an advocate for challenging youth issues in her community, and has been involved in starting a youth leadership group, running youth arts camps, was a youth ambassador for the Barkly region in 2016 and participated in the 2017 National Indigenous Youth Parliament in Canberra.

 

Paige Laker, 15 of Humpty Doo cares for her dad who suffered a cardiac arrest which resulted in an acquired brain injury in January 2018. Paige’s role is secondary to her mum. It involves prompting of medication and preparing food, helping around the house, distracting him with puzzles, games and encouragement to try new things and get out and enjoy life. Paige is an Ambassador for Little Dreamers, and an advocate for young carers in the NT and around Australia.

 

Khalehla Cartwright, 18 of Herbert cares for her younger sister, who requires 24/7 supervision and is diagnosed with Dup15q, a rare chromosomal condition that leads to developmental and behavioural challenges. Khalehla ensures her sister uses hygienic products such as soap, shampoo and toothpaste. She washes her sister’s hair and makes sure she takes her medication. Khalehla dedicates her free time to her sister and three other younger siblings, averaging 35 hours per week of caring. In addition, she completed year 12 in 2021 and now works full-time.

 

 

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Alfred Farrell, 23 of Rockhole is a Regional Support Officer at the Department of the Chief Minister and Cabinet. He is also a qualified interpreter. He played a key role in the Covid-19 response in Katherine by engaging with Aboriginal Territorians and interpreting key Covid-19 messaging throughout the year. He undertook training to be eligible to support testing and worked in the Binjari and Rockhole communities.

 

Kari Moffat, 27 of Woolner is the Animal Welfare Assurance Manager for AUSTREX, where she regularly initiates and leads industry initiatives. She has contributed to animal welfare initiatives in destination markets like Indonesia and Vietnam. Kari was also part of the inaugural Young Livestock Exporters Network (YLEN) committee. As YLEN Chair, Kari is driven to seek opportunities for YLEN members to expand their careers.

 

 

Kirsten Anderson, 29 of Borroloola works as a Remote Family Safety and Support worker at the Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities. A proud Kija/Gooniyandi/bunuba woman, Kirsten has been working to bridge the gap. She is a member of the Borroloola Gulf Show Society and CARE Champion The CMSA Program. In 2018, she helped organise the School Ball, which improved overall attendance for Borrooloola School.

 

 

Charles Darwin University Innovation Award

Alina Biju, 20 of Berrimah founded the Women’s Collective for Innovation and Change (WCIC), a student group at CDU aimed at empowering women to achieve their dreams. As its President in 2021, she managed events with a focus on gender equity in employment and leadership. Events she helped organise include Career Pathways to STEM, Women’s Health Week, Mental Health Fun Day and the inaugural WCIC Ball.

 

Level Up Esports of Palmerston is a social enterprise formed in response to Covid restrictions. A group of young people in Palmerston began online gaming meetups to maintain their relationships and sense of inclusion. After the restrictions were lifted, they received a grant that allowed them to purchase second-hand gaming equipment. They now host gaming sessions and run Youth Drop In Gaming for young disadvantaged people.

 

Tisha Tejaya, 25 of Stuart Park founded Cultivation, an initiative that uses art, stories and technology to bridge cultural, language and generational gaps. Since 2020, Tisha has self-published the ‘Parap & Rapid Creek Market Pocketbook’ now in its second edition. The pocketbook contains botanical illustrations, produce profiles, migrant and refugee anecdotes and recipe ideas. Tisha received funding from the NT Regional Arts Funds and is donating 500 copies of the pocketbook to the Territory community.

 

 

McDonalds NT Career Achievement Award
Erika Mae Lu, 24 of Karama completed her Bachelor of Business with CDU and won the 2019 Business Student of the Year Award. She joined the public sector after gaining a competitive graduate position. Most recently, she has been promoted as a Business Analyst within Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade. Erika also enjoys supporting her local church community and organisations to empower low-income families and communities through education.

 

Max Stretton, 25 of Rapid Creek started his career straight out of High School as a law clerk at Ward Keller, the largest firm in the Territory, whilst studying a Bachelor of Law full-time. In 2016, he studied in China followed by a semester in Indonesia in 2017. He came back to Darwin and worked as an Associate in the Supreme Court NT. Max graduated and was employed as a litigation lawyer in Alice Springs and in mid-2021, Max started as an Associate at Bespoke Territory, where he now works with former Chief Minister of the NT, Paul Henderson AO and Mike Burgess AM providing strategy advice to companies with operations in the NT.

 

Tamika Galea, 28 of Nhulunbuy is a forensic psychologist who works as general manager of Outlook Psychology Practice. She started in 2019 as a general psychologist/forensic registrar and was promoted to Clinical Lead before becoming the General Manager in August 2021. Tamika previously worked at Brisbane Youth Detention Centre, providing psychological services to vulnerable young people. She has completed Psychology Honours and Masters of Psychology (Forensic).

 

 

Minister for Youth Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Malia Ford, 28 of Darwin is finding what empowers and inspires people. She strives for empowerment of others, through establishing the Charles Darwin University Allied Health Collective. Being a founding member and previous Vice Chair of Two Two One Mental Health Charity, Volunteering for the Nightcliff Lions Food Van and The Katherine Salvation Army Christmas Lunches, among others. She is currently completing her last year of Master’s in Occupational Therapy.

 

Paige Horrigan, 18 of Palmerston is creating greater acceptance and awareness for the LGBTIQ+ community. They planned and managed the first Pride event in Palmerston history. Paige was previously Campus Captain and College Captain at Palmerston College. In 2019, they shaved their hair for cancer and strongly advocate for charities like Shave for the Cure. Paige was part of the NT Youth Round Table in 2020 and has worked with organisations like Rainbow Territory to help fight against discriminatory legislation.

 

Sizol Fuyana, 21 of Palmerston overcame her own adversities and mental health issues, and founded Fuyana Support, a youth-oriented consultancy firm that provides social and emotional wellbeing to young people through building connections. She has successfully designed and rolled out programs across the territory to support young people coming out of the justice system. Sizol was Chair of the 2021 NT Youth Round Table, helped launch the NT Education Engagement Strategy and sat on the Expert Advisory Panel. She currently studies Law and Psychology at Charles Darwin University and was named the 2022 NT Young Australian of the Year.

 

 

2021 Finalists

 

Charles Darwin University Innovation Award:

Emma Warren, 24 of Anula is empowering young people to feel confident. Emma is a Young Female Empowerment Coach who founded She Flourishes, a company dedicated to empowering and helping young women reach their full potential and strive to accomplish their goals. She launched a website and gave away a free e-book on “How to Have Fun Gaining Self Confidence”. Emma organised her first Mother Daughter Self-Love Lunch, which had over 100 attendees. She launched her Flourish in Life Program, a six-week program with modules, toolkits and more. Prior to her life coach journey, Emma founded Social Splash, a social media advertising, strategic management, photography and consultancy business

 Faye Dickson, 29 of Darwin is committed to making people with disability feel better connected and engaged. Faye led the planning of and facilitated the All Abilities Expo, the first disability expo in the Northern Territory, bringing together the disability sector and providing a chance for people with a disability to meet local providers and choose services. The Expo was attended by over 50 exhibitors and 600 attendees. Faye also organised for local sports clubs to attend the Expo and showcase how inclusive they are. There were guest panel discussions where people with a disability asked questions to industry experts. Faye applied for funding through APM Communities

 

 

NT Government Young Carers Award:

 Chrissie Taylor, 14 of Darwin understands that it is natural to care for family. Chrissie helps her mother look after her older sister, Amanda, who has autism. Chrissie assists Amanda in doing things like having a shower, going to bed, or getting her food so Amanda can start doing them by herself. Chrissie looks after her sister every day after school and during weekends. She aids Amanda in playing netball, a sport that Amanda loves but sometimes forgets. Chrissie attends Young Carer’s activities every year to get a better understanding of her sister’s situation and spend time around people who also care for their family members

 Khalehla Cartwright, 16 of Herbert is a family-oriented person. Khalehla is a full-time student who has taken on the responsibility of assisting her parents with caring for her 15-year-old sister who has special needs, Emmeline, along with her three other younger siblings. Khalehla ensures Emmeline washes her hair and body and brushes her teeth. She escorts her sister and supervises her so Emmeline doesn’t get taken advantage of, or become angry and violent around children. As the eldest of five children, Khalehla has on multiple occasions had to put her studies aside to care for her siblings and spends around 30 hours per week on her caring duties

 Sinafoni Naufahu, 18 of Alice Springs has unconditional love and support. Sinafoni is a Teacher Aide who cares for her 4-year-old brother, Edward, who has a rare condition called Goldenhar Syndrome, autism, eczema and food allergies. Edward is unable to walk, crawl or stand and uses a specialised walker, stroller and hoist. Sinafoni cares for her brother for 8 to 10 hours a day. Sinafoni also helps care for her 8-year-old and 6-year-old siblings as her mother has Type 2 diabetes and hypertension and her dad works long night shifts. In 2019, Sinafoni took eight weeks off school to care for Edward through his Cochlear Implant Surgery

 

 

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award:

 Melanie Gunner, 22 of Gillen is an advocate for youth mental wellbeing. Melanie is the Chair of the NT Youth Round Table where mentors educate each other on how life is in the different regional and rural communities and pitch solutions to the Chief Minister’s team. Melanie is a Youth Engagement Officer at the Alice Springs Town Council and Community Engagement Officer at Headspace Alice Springs. She delivers workshops and presentations and organises community events such as FABAlice, an LGBTQIA+ event, and Sun’s Out Heads Out Day, which was attended by over 400 students. Melanie won the 2020 Young Person Award for Mental Health Week

 Alexandra Craig, 27 of Gillen is an Aboriginal Land Rights Lawyer at the Central Land Council (CLC), working with and empowering First Nation’s People. She drafts Community Development Agreements, provides legal advice to constituents of the CLC and undertakes other Aboriginal Land Rights Act and native title legal work. Alexandra is also a Sports Trainer at AFL Northern Territory, where she ensures games are safer for all athletes, provides first aid and helps manage injuries. She is a casual Regional Support Worker for Alice Springs Youth Accommodation and Support Services and a member at NT Law Society’s Legal Education Committee and NT Women Lawyer’s Association

 James Arratta, 24 of Leanyer is fuelled by his care for people. James is a Remote Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) worker at the Royal Darwin Hospital. He travels to Tiwi Islands and Belyuen Communities three times a week to run AOD sessions with the women’s centre, schools, community groups and members, and attend local community events to better connect, raise awareness and educate through programmed sessions. He also coaches the Under-18 Waratah Football Club. James previously worked in an administrative role at the Belyuen Health Centre. He won the 2019 Health Professional of the Year and currently studies a Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs at CDU.

 

 

Zip Print Sport Award

 Kaylee Dunn, 14 of Fannie Bay is a road and track junior cyclist who competes for the Darwin Cycling Club representing Northern Territory. She competes in the Australian Junior Track Championships and the National Junior Track Series. Her love for cycling came from participating in the Tasmanian Christmas Carnival where she won the 1000m Burnie Wheel Race at age 9. Kaylee mentors less experienced cyclists at her club, both younger and older. Despite the cancellation of tournaments in 2020, Kaylee continued to train six days a week to ensure she is ready to compete. She has won a Boarding Scholarship to Immanuel College in Adelaide for 2021-2024

 Jaimie Bryant, 17 of Katherine strives to reach the highest level in everything she does. As a young Indigenous female, Jaimie understands she has to work harder to find academic and high-level sporting opportunities. Between juggling school, sports and work, she has managed to represent Big Rivers and Northern Territory in netball, soccer and AFL. She has also represented Australia as part of the 2019 Wanderers Australia Netball team. Jaimie drives for 3 hours for an opportunity to improve her skills in AFL as a utility in the Saint Mary’s Women’s Premier League side. Jaimie currently works part-time to fund most of her sporting activities

 Sherika Mahoney, 11 of Alpurrurulam has overcome adversity to excel in sports. Sherika lost her leg when she was six months old and has suffered from poor-fitting prosthetic legs over the years. But Sherika is interested in running and AFL. She strived to compete in Darwin for the School Sport Australia Athletic Championships. At 10, she was selected to represent her school at The Barkly Region Interschool Athletics Carnival. She was then selected to represent The Barkly Region at the NT Athletics Championships. She competed against able body and multiclass students and won four gold medals. She hopes to represent Australia in the Paralympics one day.

 

 

McDonalds NT Career Achievement Award:

 Jazz Walia, 29 of Lyons is committed to self-development. In 2015, Jazz started a family-owned business and opened a Pizza Capers franchise in Palmerston City. With growing passion for hospitality and management, Jazz launched a café business with supermarket called Fresh Point Café in 2017. In 2018, he converted the supermarket into a restaurant, Palates of India, and in 2019, he opened Flank Bar & Grill. In 2020, Jazz converted an unused community space into the second location of Fresh Point Café. During Covid-19, local customers supported the restaurants’ predominantly delivery and takeaway services, inspiring Jazz to partner with Deliverish to upgrade their online ordering system

 Kathryn Ezzy, 29 of Humpty Doo is front-woman of the band Kathryn and the Overbytes. After earning her Bachelor of Education (music) with high distinction, she secured a permanent music teaching position at MacKillop Catholic College. She has been the Classroom Music Curriculum Coordinator and is the Acting Head of Arts for academic year 2021. In mid-2019, she obtained a position on the Catholic Education NT Teaching and Learning Standing Committee. Kathryn has coordinated Legato Orchestral Music Experience in collaboration with Centre for Youth and Community Music. During Covid-19 lockdown, Kathryn and her band members performed in livestreamed events, learning quickly to achieve high-quality sound

 Alexandra Craig, 27 of Gillen earned her double degree in Law and Business in February 2019 and completed her placement at the Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania. She moved to Central Australia and accepted a casual contract with the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service whilst completing her Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Alexandra currently works at the Central Land Council (CLC) after successful admission as an officer of the Supreme Court of the NT and the High Court of Australia. At CLC, she drafts Community Development agreements, provides legal advice to the Community Development section, and undertakes Aboriginal Land Rights Act and native title legal work.

 

 

Colemans Contracting & Earthmoving Agriculture Award:

 Amy Kirke, 27 of Lyons is a scientist who won the 2020 Northern Territory Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award (RWA). As part of winning the RWA, Amy created the pilot program called “Let’s Go Fishing”, a game that simulates fishing and fisheries management. Some of the program’s objectives are to explain how fishing affects the whole ecosystem, share knowledge on fishing practices and explain how research helps manage fisheries. Amy received her PhD scholarship to study in Charles Darwin University in 2018. During National Science Week, Amy created a book which was sent to communities schools to educate students on threatened and endangered elasmobranch species in NT

 Hugh Dawson, 22 of Elliott recognises the opportunities of the cattle industry for young people. While with the North Australian Cattle Industry, he helped develop the Future Northern Territory Cattleman’s Association program, set up for young industry leaders to form connections and begin developing skills to communicate with media. Hugh has worked as NT representative of the Young Livestock Exporters Network, taking part in the first Livestock Leaders’ Workshop. Hugh is an advisor to the working committee for The Livestock Collective. Whilst currently working with Barkly Pastoral Company, he has trained to fly a helicopter and is completing his Certificate IV in Agriculture at CDU

 Romy Carey, 27 of Berry Springs is passionate about advancing the voice and interests of cattle producers in the Northern Territory. Romy is the Executive Officer of the NT Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA). She has successfully applied for industry Build Skills funding to fund 80% of members’ and non-members’ course fees. Her previous role in the VET Sector enabled her to source a registered training organisation willing to travel to NT to deliver accredited training. Romy also oversees and manages the Bohning Yards and Grant Heaslip Training Centre and Accommodation in Alice Springs. She has helped develop a call centre script specific to cattle theft to improve reporting.

 

 

One Rail Australia Indigenous Achievement Award:

 Kyle Bambra, 19 of Arnhem Land is committed to helping his fellow countrymen. Kyle has worked with Indigenous youth, teaching culture and the choosing the right path in life program through the Boluna Foundation. He mentors young Indigenous people to help give back to his community. Kyle is a client of NDIS and although unable to read or write, he is fully committed to fulfilling his dream of becoming a qualified hairdresser. Kyle has now undertaken a hairdressing traineeship and is one of the best students in his course. He travels to remote communities to cut hair for free and make people feel good about themselves

 Luke Roberts, 22 of Berrimah hopes more Indigenous employment programs will be accessible. Luke was part of the Northern Territory Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, where he helped provide safe homes for families in multiple remote communities through housing programs. Prior to leaving the Department due to racism concerns, he had the opportunity to travel to remote communities and engage with different people from all walks of life. Luke was part of the Aboriginal Employment Program and has encouraged people to give it a go. Luke completed a Certificate IV in Project Management. He also has a Certificate II in community Services (AOD) and Certificate II in Business

 Shakira Munckton, 18 of Tennant Creek is spreading kindness and love. A proud Jingili woman, Shakira has formed friendships with elders and young people. She has contributed to the local community by spreading kindness and love, and encouraging everyone to connect with nature. Learning from her parents and grandparents, Shakira makes a habit of stopping to talk to people so that each person can tell their own story and she can give them comfort and a little inspiration to start their own process. Shakira credits her inspiration and passion for helping others to the stories her grandfather shared with her before he passed away. In 2020, Shakira completed Year 12.

 

 

Minister for Youth Excellence in Youth Leadership Award:

 Arne Orstavik, 20 of Millner is passionate about creating youth-led action leading to positive social change. Arne is the Regional Leader at the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC) Darwin, where they mentor members and advocate for continued skill development, education and personal empowerment. Arne has co-facilitated a two-day local AYCC Climate Justice Bootcamp where they provided 15 young participants with skills, knowledge and confidence to raise their voices and lead social change. Arne also led and participated in the NT Anglicare Couch Surfing for Youth Homelessness event in 2019. Through various volunteer roles, Arne has completed the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards

 Pashya Noorizal, 17 of Tennant Creek is offering respect and resilience as a lesson for youth. Pashya works at Youthlinx where he assists in promoting the development of self-confidence and life skills, encouraging participation in sports and activities. He has completed his Bronze Medallion and Life Guarding qualifications and has commenced work as Life Guard at the Town Pool. Pashya overcame bullying in Year 8 and completed Year 9 and 10 with academic achievements in Math, English, Science and Health. He has joined the Barkly Regional Council’s Youth Advisory Council in 2019. In 2021, Pasha received the Young Citizen of the Year Award for Tennant Creek

 Ben Poveda-Alfonso, 28 of Alawa is passionate about youth empowerment. Upon arriving in Australia in April 2015, Ben undertook a Bachelor of Accounting degree in Charles Darwin University. At CDU, he was President of the CDU Students’ Association. Ben founded Kindness Shake, a community and student-led initiative helping migrants, refugees and temporary visa holders experiencing financial difficulties due to Covid-19 pandemic. They have served over 5,000 pre-cooked meals, assisted more than 500 individuals and raised over $60,000. Ben won the 2020 CDU International Alumnus Award and 2018 StudyNT International Student of the Year Award. He plans to commence a Masters of Public Policy in 2021.

 

 

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award:

 Luke Haywood and Jett Egan, 16 of Larapinta are committed to learning constantly. Luke and Jett started their business venture “J&L Gardening” as part of a school project, for their Personal Learning Program at St Philips College whilst completing their Year 10 studies. J&L Gardening offer low-cost service and knowledge of garden maintenance and design. Luke and Jett utilised their contacts and peers to provide them with business ideas and guide them on the right pathway. They now have over 50 clients and have completed 90 jobs at a rate of $20-$30 per hour. In October 2020, they helped plan, budget and create a Peace Garden for their College

 Sharna Jane Kotz 23, of Nightcliff is dedicated to developing her services for local Territorians. Sharna has a Certificate III in Beauty Services and a Diploma in Beauty Therapy. In 2016, she opened her own salon, Pure Skin Face & Body Clinic. From a one-woman therapist, she has grown her salon to employ full-time, casual and contracted specialists, an injectable nurse and dual qualified nutritionist and iridologist. Sharna continues to research the best and safest technology in the industry. She is the first in NT to introduce Plaxplot, a safer device for non-surgical blepharoplasty. Sharna offers work placement opportunities, including an introduction into the beauty therapy workforce

 Sizol Fuyana, 20 of Palmerston is devoted to supporting disadvantaged young people at risk of entering the justice system. Sizol is the Executive Director of Fuyana Support, a youth-oriented consultancy firm with a focus on social and emotional well-being. They offer tailored solutions to local organisations/services and project management capacity. Fuyana Support has partnered with the City of Palmerston to develop a Youth Info Map, with the project leading to freelance work with Joblink, supporting young jobseekers. Fuyana Support produces “The Reality Change” on podcast, discussing personal growth and how to face adversity. Sizol is a law and psychology student who has volunteered for many working groups.

 

 

Somerville Community Service Award:

 Imogen Kuipers, 13 of Jingili is committed to supporting children with cancer. Imogen has been riding her bike a minimum of 500 km every October in the Great Cycle Challenge (GCC) since she was 7 years old, raising funds that are used Australia-wide for vital childhood cancer research. Despite the challenges 2020 presented, she raised her highest-ever total of $11, 426, riding a total of 603km. In 2019, she participated in the “Light Your Bike, Support the Fight” night ride. In 2020, she initiated online auctions and sent e-mails and text messages to raise funds. Imogen was the GCC ambassador in 2019 and 2020

 Peter Susanto, 14 of Rapid Creek strives to achieve the best. After completing the Code Club Program in 2016, Peter volunteered at Code Club to share his coding knowledge. Peter is a member of NT Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented, actively assisting new members and inspiring them to make beneficial products. In 2018, Peter set up a free mini-library with help from Darwin City Council. Peter is a Nightcliff Swimming Club member. In 2019, he mentored a team for the 2019 First Lego League Competition. Peter and his sister sell Indonesian snacks and donate all profits to an orphanage in Surabaya, Indonesia

 Marie Cunnington, 26 of Durack is dedicated to serving her community through volunteer work. Marie has been volunteering for the Northern Territory State Emergency Services (NTSES) for five years, providing assistance where needed. She loves being the NTSES mascot, Paddy the Platypus, going to schools and giving information on preparation and the importance of having emergency kits. She has also been with the Virginia Bees Creek Volunteer Fire Brigade for two years, providing assistance at some of the worst bushfires in rural Darwin. Marie was deployed to assist with the Queensland bushfires in 2019. She received the 2020 Chief Minister’s Top End Youth Volunteer of the Year Award

 

 

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award:

 Kial King, 28 of Katherine is an Aboriginal and Islander Education Worker at St Joseph’s College, providing Cultural Education Programs for the students and staff. He has the ability to extend student learning through differentiating for individual needs and demonstrates creativity in developing hands-on activities. For instance, he developed a maths activity working on proportions of cattle in different paddocks for students in pastoral towns. Kial is a member of the college community and Catholic Education Northern Territory. He has strong cultural knowledge and shares and play a significant role in improving indigenous community relationships. He completed his Bachelor in Primary Education in December 2020

 Tomisena Duncan, 21 of Jilkminggan is an Assistant Educator at Jilkminggan School. She is a leading contributor to the School’s Indigenous Languages and Culture curriculum. She also works alongside the school’s Literacy Leader to organise and coordinate a Read Write Inc. Group. She requested Read Write Inc. training resources that are EALD-friendly. Tomisena completed Year 12 whilst undertaking school-based training to continue working as an Assistant Educator. She is currently completing her Certificate III in Education Support and hopes to take further studies to become a fully qualified teacher. In 2020, Tomisena was recognised as the Aboriginal Educator of the Year by the Department of Education

 Louise Crowe, 27 of Eaton is a proud Wiradjuri woman who teaches art and design woodwork to Year 11 and 12 students at Palmerston College. She has developed and sustained a viable curriculum for Creative Arts and Design and Engineering. She helped re-open a workshop that hads been shut down for seven years and developed policies on how to safely use machinery for the students. She improved the intake and popularity of the Arts and Design areas and encourages students to express themselves and their culture through their art. Louise has a Bachelor Honours in Industrial Design and a Graduate Diploma in Secondary Education

 

 

Santos Environment Award:

 Brittany Hayward-Brown, 26 of Rapid Creek hopes to inspire conservation-focused behaviour. Brittany helped reactivate EnviroCollective, an environment-focused group at Charles Darwin University. As President of EnviroCollective, Brittany has organised over 15 educational events, with focus on CDU Casuarina campus’ remnant vegetation as part of the Conservation on Campus Program. She collaborates with other local environmental groups, CDU researchers and local experts. In recognition of their work, EnviroCollective received the Territory Natural Resource Management Award. Brittany has volunteered with the Friends of Casuarina Coastal Reserve and the Larrakia Rangers and Tangaroa Blue at the Darwin Clean Up. In 2020, she completed and honours research on Gouldian Finches

 Cara Penton, 25 of Rapid Creek is passionate about researching threatened and endangered animals. Dr Penton completed her doctorate on scholarship at Charles Darwin University where she researched arboreal (tree-dwelling) mammals and tree hollow availability in tropical savannas in collaboration with the Tiwi Land Rangers. In 2019, Cara led the NT Science Week Committee to run 20 live events and organise workshops at CDU’s Painting Nest Boxes for Wildlife. In 2020, she worked for Inspiring Australia in developing a website identifying photos of arboreal mammals at tree hollows on the Tiwi Islands. Cara is now working as the Ecological Monitoring Officer with Warddeken Land Management

 Jessica Puntoriero, 23 of Berry Springs is proud to represent Indigenous female rangers. Jessica was part of the Larrakia Land and Sea Rangers program, where she coordinated the annual Darwin Harbor Clean-Up that collected 1.36 tons of rubbish. She was heavily involved in their collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in monitoring the world’s atmospheric pollution north of Darwin. She helped organise the 2019 NT Women’s Healthy Country Forum Jessica which was attended by over 150 Indigenous elders and local women. Jessica was awarded the 2016 Newmont Tanami Indigenous Scholarship. She will graduate in 2021 from Charles Darwin University with an Environmental Science degree

 Amy Kirke, 27 of Lyons has a focus on sustainable education. Since winning the 2020 NT Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award, she has made it her mission to increase science, technology, engineer and math (STEM) outreach to communities in the Northern Territory. She created a pilot program called “Let’s Go Fishing”, a game that simulates fishing, overfishing and fisheries management. Amy is a marine biologist who moved from NT to Perth to complete her PhD. She is studying the biology and ecology of sharks caught in commercial fisheries. As a lecturer, Amy is committed to sharing her expertise and knowledge with young people to manage local fisheries

 

 

2020 Finalists

NT Government Young Carers Award
Stephengen Magadia, 15 of Zuccoli is committed to his family. Stephengen attends to his mum who has deteriorated eyesight, kidney failure and an amputated leg. After school, he helps his mum prepare for dialysis and gives her medicines. He and his dad take care of household chores. Although he cannot enjoy what other teenagers can because of his responsibilities, his support has helped his mum become stronger. Stephengen attends the NT Carers’ support group activities and was recently accepted into the Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services Cadets Program. He received an award for outstanding commitment and exceptional achievement in Year 10 Sports Excellence.

 

Ebony Cubillo, 11 of Woodroffe has unconditional love and concern for her older sister. Ebony dedicates her time and energy in caring for her sister who has Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) that often leads to meltdowns and outbursts. Ebony helps with daily tasks such as her sister’s grooming, preparing meals, administering medicines, and monitoring her health, wellbeing and attitude, amongst others. She sacrifices her personal time to chaperone her sister at social events and advocates for FASD by correcting and informing family, friends and community members who come in contact with her sister. Ebony is a member of CREATE Foundation and Student Voice Positive Choice.

 

Emma Symonds, 14 of Lyons is a dedicated sister and learner. Emma cares for her three brothers who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She assists them with understanding social roles and interactions and helps with their day-to-day activities. Due to her responsibilities, Emma can only pursue her interests within school time and are often kept simple due to family budget. She has participated in Autism NT and Top End Calisthenics Club Incorporated fundraising activities. Emma received the 2017 Australia Day Student of the Year and 2016 Citizen of the Year for Wagaman Primary. She also won first place in the Territory Young Scientists Awards 2018.

 

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Melanie Gunner, 21 of Alice Springs is an advocate for youth mental health. Melanie was a Youth Engagement Officer at the Alice Springs Town Council and is currently a Community Engagement Officer at Headspace Alice Springs. She has worked extensively within the community, delivering workshops and presentations to hospitals and schools whilst supporting all diverse community events and groups. Her personal art business, Melanie Rose Gunner Art, allows her to celebrate the lives of young people and expose their artistic talents. Melanie had been a panellist at the NT Youth Health Summit in Darwin and plans to study Psychology or Medicine in the future.

 

Alexandra Craig, 26 of Gillen is empowering the First Nation’s people. As a community development lawyer at Central Land Council (CLC), Alexandra visits remote communities and empowers the First Nation’s people. She provides legal advice to the CLC Community Development Program and undertakes Aboriginal Land Rights Act and native title legal work. With a strong passion for contract and native title law, she helps build Aboriginal ownership and control and implement community benefit projects. Alexandra has a double degree in law and business. She is vice president of the NT Young Lawyers and a member of the NT Women’s Lawyers Association and Alice Springs Federal Netball Club.

 

Claire Chandler, 28 of Larapinta has a passion for indigenous health. Claire is a doctor who studied at the Territory’s own medical school. While others have left, Claire decided to stay in Alice Springs, pursue paediatric medicine, and find opportunities to encourage young doctors to become skilled. She works at Alice Springs Hospital, the sole doctor who resuscitates newborn babies and the only paediatric doctor on overnight. Claire conducts free swing dancing lessons and runs mock clinical exams for medical students. She completed her Doctor of Medicine degree from Flinders University NT Campus and has a paper published in the Medical Journal of Australia.

 

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award
Teegan Tyson-Hayes, 26 of Gillen offers invaluable support to vulnerable families. Teegan is a young aboriginal mother who works as a Families as First Teacher’s assistant at Larapinta Child and Family Centre. She works alongside families and children to ensure a safe and welcoming space conducive to learning and development. She uses her understanding of child development and learning needs to enrich early learning experiences. A coach and mentor to young staff members, Teegan is also a spokesperson for many Aboriginal people in Laparinta and the wider Alice Springs. She achieved full accreditation in the 3a Abecedarian Approach and will soon undertake Preparation for Tertiary Success.

 

Jack Gumbula, 25 of Ramingining is spreading his message of hope to Aboriginal youth. Jack is an assistant teacher in the Work Readiness class at Ramingining School. He uses his strong connection to culture and passion for music to engage students in activities relevant to them as young Aboriginals, whilst teaching the importance of regular school attendance. He constructed a Raypirri shelter where students can learn to use hand and power tool and building materials. His class won most improved attendance and was featured on VampTV and NT Education Department’s eNews publication. Jack values Aboriginal culture and encourages students to express themselves in their mother tongue.

 

Clarissa Carter, 22 of Casuarina is passionate about supporting Aboriginal learners. Clarissa is a lead trainer and assessor of Certificate II in Community Health delivered by Menzies and Charles Darwin University. She uses culturally relevant storytelling techniques and develops locally understood metaphors to explain Western scientific concepts. She adjusts her mentoring style to meet individual and project needs to make learners comfortable. The Certificate II qualification builds the capacity of Aboriginal researchers in remote communities and gives an understanding of the underlying causes of poor health. Clarissa has a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and is currently completing her Bachelor of Education at CDU.

 

Colemans Contracting & Earthmoving Agriculture Award
Peta Stockwell, 22 of Daly Waters hopes to have a wide-reaching impact on the cattle industry. Peta earned her Bachelor of Agriculture Science degree from University of Queensland in 2019, where she graduated with first class honours and as valedictorian. She has received scholarships and financial support throughout her degree. She received the UQ Honours Scholarship in Animal Science for her honours research project based on a research trial completed at the Katherine Research Station. She has also undertaken agricultural work placements in Central Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania and Vanuatu. A proud Territorian, her long-term goal is to have a positive impact on the northern Australia beef industry.

 

Maddison Clonan, 27 of Stuart Park is passionate about horticulture development. She has helped strengthen the production, marketability and sustainability of horticultural products. Maddison led the development of the Department of Primary Industry and Resources’ Young Leaders Group. She launched the Researchers in Agriculture for International Development networking group in the NT, to share knowledge and opportunities, build research capacity and communicate the value of agriculture. Maddison received the Crawford Fund Travel Scholarship Award and travelled to Cambodia to conduct agricultural research. She graduated from a Masters of Sustainable Agriculture in 2018. In 2019, she received the Chief Minister’s Top End Youth Volunteer of the Year Award.

 

James Beale, 29 of Katherine has championed initiatives for the agricultural sector. James started as a station hand at the Consolidated Pastoral Company and worked his way to becoming a station manager of Bunda and Kirkimbie stations. He attends and contributes to the Katherine Pastoral Industry Advisory Committee and the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association. He helps develop closer cultural relationships between the agricultural and wider communities. He has a passion for encouraging young people to build a career in agriculture and for delivering business improvements through technology. He is a licensed fixed wing and helicopter pilot. James represented NT as a 2017 NAB Agribusiness Rising Champion.

 

Charles Darwin University Innovation Award
Miles McLoughlin, 29 of Fannie Bay aspires to create a culinary identity for the Territory. Miles is a restaurant consultant and executive chef at the Gammon Creations Culinary Design Studio. He works with venue owners, caterers and independent culinary creatives to better present their culinary identity by streamlining menus and kitchen operations, brand design and marketing strategy. When not with clients, Miles conducts independent research and development in his personal kitchen to create products and concepts to involve local creatives. He has developed a range of sparkling sodas, a probiotic cola, an all-natural sports energy drink and an iced coffee. Miles also has a self-published novel.

 

Joel Benesha, 22 of Driver is passionate about giving back. Joel is the Director of Benesha Robotics and a software engineer at Corrosion Instruments. He has developed a smartwatch prototype that uses the Telstra 4G sim network and several sensors to give feedback for doctors to best aid remote patients. The innovation will help address the Territory’s problem with remote health. He also built a humanoid robot that can pick up objects, talk and walk. Joel gives back to the community by running technology/robotic workshops for remote indigenous communities. An ambassador for Charles Darwin University, he received eight scholarships and will soon undertake his PhD.

 

Sinead Redmond, 29 of Durack is dedicated to growth and excellence. She is a qualified Civil Engineer who works as Project Management Lead for a Darwin-based engineering consultancy firm where she leads a team of project managers. Sinead is the chairperson of Young Engineers Australia, Learned Society Advisory Committee and FutureNet. She organises community initiatives to promote the positive effect of STEM education for young people. As a member of Women in Engineering, she helps promote diversity and inclusion in the industry. She developed the concept of a ‘STEM Expo’ to bridge the gap between education and industry. Sinead won the 2017 NT Young Technologist of the Year

 

McDonalds NT Career Achievement Award
Olivia Shields, 28 of Alice Springs has achieved her career goals at a young age. She completed her Nursing degree in New Zealand and worked as Registered Nurse for four years, then moved to Alice Springs on a 6-month contract and eventually became a permanent employee. Olivia has climbed her way up from Nurse 2 to Nurse 5. As Clinical Nurse Manager at the Alice Springs Hospital’s Oncology and Day Infusions unit, she continues to seek innovative ideas to improve service. An active volunteer, Olivia hosted the Biggest Morning Tea and raised over $700 for the Cancer Council and is organising a 2020 Relay for Life event.

 

Manfred Mletsin, 27 of Darwin is dedicated to career growth. Since moving to Australia six years ago, Manfred has obtained a Certificate IV in Small Business Management and Diploma of Leadership Management. He is taking his Bachelor of Accounting at Charles Darwin University and is actively involved in the international sector. He is the current Vice President of the CDU Students’ Association and has been the StudyNT Student Ambassador since 2016 and is also a University Mental Health Framework Advisory Group member. In 2019, Manfred founded Mindful Minder NT, a small business that offers to take care of house and pets while the owners are away.

 

Joel Benesha, 22 of Driver has a passion for technology and excellence. Joel is the founder and director of Benesha Robotics which runs technology and robotic workshops for remote communities, schools, prisons and more. He has developed a smartwatch prototype that uses the Telstra 4G sim network and sensors to allow doctors to monitor and better aid remote health patients. He has built a humanoid and an obstacle avoidance robot. Joel is also a software engineer at Corrosion Instruments, which supplies tools to help survey pipelines for corrosion. A published journal author, Joel has received eight scholarships through Charles Darwin University, for which he is an Ambassador.

 

Santos Environment Award
Meg Parry, 26 of Jingli advocates for mine rehabilitation through revegetation. Meg completed her Bachelor of Environmental Science and Bachelor of Science Honours at Charles Darwin University with a perfect 7.0 GPA and was awarded the CDU Chancellor’s Medal for Most Meritorious Student. She has volunteered at the Australian Mangrove and Saltmarsh Network Conference and the Douglas Daly Research Farm. At the Mahbili Festival in Jabriu, she had the opportunity to talk about native plant species and revegetation. Meg started her research during her Honours degree and has continued working on it whilst at the Rehabilitation and Ecology Department at the Closure Team at Ranger Mine.

 

Juliet Saltmarsh, 28 of Rapid Creek is passionate about raising awareness of environmental issues in the Territory. Juliet works as a Volunteer Engagement Officer and Better Earth team leader at Conservation Volunteers Australia. She conducts information sessions, presentations and speeches to schools, organisations and communities. She has engaged over 500 people in conservation projects around Darwin, including wildlife habitat restoration and invasive species management. Juliet organises community awareness events and has hosted events such as ‘The Secret Life of the Atlas Moth’, Clean-Up Australia Day and Darwin Harbour Clean-up. Juliet was a finalist in the 2016 Territory Natural Resource Management Volunteer Award and the 2015 Premiers Sustainability Award

 

Roley James, 27 of Katherine is promoting sustainable grazing practices. Roley worked as an assistant manager for five years before becoming the overall manager at Hidden Valley Station (HVS), a local Territory business dedicated to turning grass into protein and providing opportunities for local people and the community. Roley introduced changes in the operation, switching from constant grazing to rotational grazing system to reduce fire hazards and allow the land to recover. HVS is on a mission to demonstrate to the local community, the Australian public and cattle production operators that sustainable grazing practices is the most sensible and environmentally health proposition for the livestock production sector.

 

Somerville Community Service Award
Melanie Gunner, 21 of Alice Springs is committed to helping address youth mental health issues. As the Community Engagement Officer at Headspace Alice Springs, Melanie has taken an interest in youth mental health barriers affecting disadvantaged people or groups in Alice Springs. She hopes to establish a connection with young people and offer a safe environment where they can share their stories and communicate with others. She also aspires to open up the discussion of mental health among students and those disconnected from schools. Melanie worked as Youth Engagement Officer at the Alice Springs Town Council. She has organised several youth events and a youth initiative mural.

 

Phoenix Riggs, 16 of Wanguri is helping every child learn to swim. Phoenix is a Volunteer Lifesaver who has accumulated the second-highest hours of all the male club members by the time he was 14 years old. He has engaged in Water Safety, Education and Training for the Darwin Surf Lifesaving Club and has a Surf Rescue Certificate. He actively assists in the Nipper Program, a highly social physical activity and education program for children 6 to 14 years old. He has volunteered at the Fannie Bay Swim and Seabreeze Festival. In 2019, he helped organise ‘The Big Bike Ride’, a fundraiser for Motor Neurone disease.

 

Siobhan Macushla Evans, 27 of Wulagi is promoting inclusion in sport. A Clinical Psychologist Registrar by profession, Siobhan is a volunteer coach for the Pints Netball Club where she coaches the first ever All Abilities Team. The team welcomes players of all abilities and aims to provide an opportunity for further inclusion in community sport. Prior to this, Siobhan has been coaching junior players for the Pints. In 2018, she became assistant coach of the NT Dragonflies Netball Team and in 2019 became the head coach. The team participates in Marie Little Shield, a national netball competition for women aged 16 and above with an intellectual disability.

 

Zip Print Sport Award
Dana Carroll, 16 of Woodroffe is a gifted athlete and survivor. Dana was 8 years old when she received a kidney transplant. This did not prevent Dana from becoming a multi-class swimmer. She is an Australian representative and previous representative of NT. She holds four World Transplant Records and 41 swimming records in Australia. In 2019, she competed in the World Transplant Games and the Arafura Games. She volunteers as assistant coach for junior squads and has a Pool Life Guard certification. In 2018, Dana represented NT in the Apex Australia National Teen Fashion Awards where she won runner-up in the Formal Wear category.

 

Gabby Coffey, 19 of Alice Springs is a motivated Indigenous athlete. Gabby won a scholarship to Caufield Grammar School for her netball skills. She left her family to go to boarding school and receive training and coaching. She made the 2019 and 2020 Victorian Fury Squad for the 2020 Australian Netball League and was Vice Captain of the Victoria 19 and Under Nationals Team. She won gold as part of the 2018 Victoria 19 and Under Nationals Team. A talent identified by Netball Australia from 2016 to 2018, Gabby hopes to play in the Super Netball League and someday play for Australia.

 

Jaime Maglieri, 23 of Tiwi is determined to provide access to recreation and sports. Jaime started competing at a very young age, representing NT in the 2017 National Youth Challenge and awarded the 2018 NT Tenpin Awards Female Bowler of the Year. In 2019, she was selected to represent Australia in the 25th Asian Championships. Jaime was a finalist for the 2019 NT Sportsperson of the Year Award and Darwin Open Ladies Masters Champion. An accredited Level 1 coach for tenpin bowling, Jamie worked as Lane Ranger for the National Bowl Patrol Program before taking the role as coach to the Junior Police Rangers.

 

NT Government Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Zhengxiong (Sean) Xiao, 18 of Alice Springs is promoting positive engagement. Sean is a student at the Centralian Senior College As a member of the Colleges Student Representative Council, he helped plan the first Alice Springs Government School Student Leadership Forum. As member of the 2019 NT Youth Round Table and Southern Vice Chair, he co-hosted with the Alice Springs Town Council for the 2019 Youth Art Music Festival. Sean is a member of Headspace Alice Springs - Youth Advisory Group and Youth Research Council. He won the 2019 NT Youth Volunteer of the Year Award and was a panel speaker at the 2019 Youth Health Summit.

 

Sinead Redmond, 29 of Durack is determined to motivate and empower and actively volunteers for various organisations. Sinead is a fully qualified Civil Engineer who currently works as a Project Manager Team Lead for an international engineering consultancy based in Darwin. She is chairperson of Young Engineers Australia, Learned Society Advisory Committee, and FutureNet. She is deputy chair of Engineers Australia’s Northern Committee, and a member of Consult Australia. Sinead developed the very first Family Fun Day for people in the built industry and their families. In 2017 and 2018, Sinead successfully coordinated the International Women’s Day Breakfast, featuring female leaders and male champions for change.

 

Ashlee Coleman, 25 of Zuccoli has a passion for youth work. Ashlee works at the Palmerston Youth Space, coordinating one of Darwin’s only alternative education support programs for disengaged youth. She uses a holistic approach to create a flexible learning environment to meet individual needs. Ashlee sits on many committees such as the Palmerston Youth Action Plan Implementation Group. After submitting a comprehensive report to the Youth Round Table 2018 on the state of Youth-at-Risk in Palmerston, she was approached by the Department of Health to be a Youth Representative for the implementation of their 10-year plan. Ashlee is also a coordinator and leader at Katherine YMCA.

 

Sacha King, 29 of Darwin is devoted to creating positive change. Sacha is the founder and director of Two Two One, a not-for-profit organisation providing innovative mental health training, workshops and talks across the Territory. Sacha is a social worker who has been raising awareness and starting honest conversations around mental health through organising Mental Health First Aid Trainings, SafeTALK Suicide Awareness, Drumming for Wellness program, Youth Diversion programs and women’s empowerment events. Sacha is a member of the Australian Association of Social Workers and Nightcliff Lions Club, Lions Food Van committee. In 2020, Sacha will conduct Teen Mental Health First Aid trainings to high school students.

 

One Rail Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Michelle Kukla, 25 of Gillen is an advocate for the homeless and the vulnerable. Michelle is a Central Arrente woman who works for the Alice Springs Youth and Accommodation Support Service as a Youth Worker and Residential Support Worker. She is instrumental in directly linking indigenous youth to client services, supporting the current manager in establishing holiday engagement programs, and upholding a healthy eating attitude at the youth resource hub. Michelle is assigned at the Ampeke Akweke Place where she assists vulnerable pregnant teenagers aged 14 to 23 who come from regional indigenous communities or who are homeless. She hopes to complete further study in social work.

 

Lauren Fyfe, 24 of Alice Springs is a modest but accomplished achiever. Lauren is a young Indigenous woman who works as an accounts person, financial administration worker and emergency relief worker at Waltja, an organisation that serves remote communities across the central desert region. As the first point of contact for clients, Lauren provides a safe and reassuring space for people avoiding shame and unease, regardless of their attire, ability to speak English or circumstances. Despite the demands of her roles, Lauren remains calm and approachable and demonstrates her ability, reliability and willingness to mentor others. Lauren is currently studying to complete her Certificate III in Business.

 

Eytahnyia Scott, 20 of Moil aspires to develop positive outcomes for Aboriginal youth and families. Eytahnyia is a proud Aboriginal woman who works as Project Development Officer & Social & Emotional Wellbeing Team Leader at Larrakia Nation. She oversees the planning and structuring of activities in partnerships with funding providers and schools. She has delivered community youth and family focused activities for Aboriginal children and families programs. Eytahnyia is a member of the Palmerston Youth Action Group as part of the Grow Well Live Well Youth Action Plan for 2020 and has been nominated to be the Female Youth Ambassador 2020 for the top end.

 

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
Sharna Kotz, 22 of Nightcliff upholds excellence in beauty therapy and innovation. Sharna opened PureSkin Face & Body Clinic in 2016 and has since developed and broadened her range of services to rival interstate beauty salons. From a one-woman salon, she now employs one fulltime qualified therapist, one casual therapist and two contract specialists. Sharna has a Certificate III in Beauty Services and a Diploma in Beauty Therapy from Charles Darwin University and has been further introduced to specialised advanced treatments. Sharna has collaborated with local nutritionists and iridologists to develop the local industry. She is also the first in NT to introduce the Plaxplot device.

 

Sacha King, 29 of Darwin is raising mental health awareness. Sacha founded Two Two One Training, a not for profit mental health specialist service that provides wellbeing, mental health and positive engagement in the Territory. From a small sole trader, they have so far delivered over 20 mental health first aid accreditation courses, 30 youth-focused programs and 10 wellbeing workshops. Sacha is a counsellor, trainer and accredited social worker with the Australian Association of Social Workers. She previously worked for non-government and government organisations. Sacha has upskilled to deliver Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and Teen Mental Health First Aid Training for high school students.

 

Jazz Walia, 28 of Lyons is committed to offering quality food. Jazz owns three restaurants, Fresh Point Co Café, Palates of India and Flank Bar & Grill, which employ 20 local staff. He opened Fresh Point Co Café and Supermarket in 2017 but while the café was successful, the supermarket struggled. It forced Jazz to convert the market to Palates of India, which became a huge success. As an Indian-born immigrant, Jazz is committed to giving back. He sponsors a range of multicultural activities, local athletes, clubs and musicians. Jazz helps the community by using local produce and hiring local businesses and tradespeople for repair.

 

 

2019 Finalists

Somerville Community Service Award
Karyna Jansons, 27 of Alice Springs
Nicole Civitarese, 25 of Tennant Creek
Romany Maunder, 26 of Darwin

Zip Print Sport Award
Shadeene Evans, 17 of Borroloola
Dana Carroll, 15 of Woodroffe
Caitlin Jong, 13 of Marlow Lagoon

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award
Kiah Fereday, 25 of Malak
Matthew Axten, 26 of Alice Springs
Wesley Campbell, 28 of Yarralin

Minister for Territory Families Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Dawyte Clancy, 18 of Naula
Alexandra (Sacha) King, 28 of Darwin
Philamena McKenzie, 22 of Stuart Park

Genesee & Wyoming Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Celeste Brand, 28 of Alice Springs
Rikki Bruce, 28 of Stuart Park
Jasmin Onus, 29 of Millner

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
Nathan Cooper - Penguin Ice, 29 of Fannie Bay
Eliza McClelland- Pony and Sid Catering Co., 24 of Winnellie
Brogan Hanrahan - The Black Russian Caravan Bar, 25 of Katherine
Annabel McLarty - Katherine Outback Experience, 29 of Katherine

NT Government Young Carers Award
Lily Websdale, 15 of Parap
Phoebe O'Shea, 16 of Wanguri
Emma Symonds, 13 of Lyons

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Annabel McLarty, 29 of Katherine
Metui Tongatua, 28 of Ramingining
Isabella Leonhardt, 18 of Katherine

ConocoPhillips Environment Award
Larissa Potter, 24 of Rapid Creek
Hugh Davies, 29 of Rapid Creek
Georgia Koch, 18 of Bakewell

Colemans Contracting & Earthmoving Agriculture Award
Roley James, 26 of Katherine
Grayson Webster, 23 of Zuccoli
Maddison Clonan, 26 of Stuart Park

Charles Darwin University Arts Award
Archer Bryett, 14 of Woodroffe
Maneeza Rahmany, 16 of Darwin
Dylan River, 26 of Alice Springs

McDonalds NT Career Achievement Award
Ben Christie, 28 of Muirhead
Nikita Rose Baker, 24 of Borroloola
Tierneigh Parnell, 25 of Gillen

 

 

 

2018 Finalists

Charles Darwin University Arts Award
Phoebe Wear, 16 of Larrakeyah
Danzal Baker, 21 of Karama
Stevie Kyriacou, 18 of Humpty

Minister for Territory Families Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Christopher Teng, 21 of
Hannah Morris, 26 of The Gardens
Phoebe Hooper, 18 of Katherine

The Coffee Club Fashion Award
Ally Pettifor, 27 of Johnston
Maggie McGowan, 29 of Katherine
Tillie Morgan, 27 of Nightcliff

Genesee & Wyoming Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Daryl Lacey, 29 of Fannie Bay
Emily Ford, 19 of Larrakeyah
Magnolia Maymuru, 21 of Nhulunbuy
Rikki Bruce, 27 of Stuart Park 

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Melissa Wurramarrba, 20 of Katherine
Shaquiena George, 15 of Larapinta
Christopher Wilson, 29 of Acacia Hills 

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
George Telan, 27 of Alice Springs
Matilda Alegria, 28 of Parap
Alex Florance 27, of Palmerston
Sally Anne Illingworth, 22 of Parap 

NT Government Young Aboriginal Educator Award
Nikita Jason, 27 of Daly River
Roger Wilyuka, 23 of Alice Springs
Dylan Barry, 20 of Alice Springs 

ConocoPhillips Environment Award
Frazer Oliver, 25 of Santa Teresa
Juliet Saltmarsh, 27 of Rapid Creek
Madeline Goddard, 29 of Austinmer 

NT Government Young Carers Award
Davida Norris, 19 of Palmerston
Emma Symonds, 13 of Lyons
Eloy Mason, 17 of Alawa 

PTTEP Australasia Health and Wellbeing Award
Alexandra Bruggisser, 29 of Milingimbi
Michelle Kula, 24 of Gillen
Sacha King, 27 of Nightcliff 

Zip Print Sport Award
Thomas Maxwell, 19 of Berrimah
Brooke Peris, 25 of Tiwi
Joseph White, 20 of Stuart Park
Lisa Tiernan, 28 of Anula 

Somerville Community Service Award
Jane Alia, 23 of Wagaman
Phoebe Hooper, 18 of Katherine
Samuel Perryman, 18 of Millner

  

2017 Finalists

Zip Print Sport Award
Brooke Peris, 23 of Tiwi
Jasmine Anderson, 25 of Karama
Bryce Fullwood, 18 of Winnellie

NT Government Young Indigenous Educator Award
Bruno Wilson, 29 of Yuendumu
Jade Sharp, 25 of Leanyer
Delsey Ah Wang, 29 of Johnston
Yilki Guyula, 22 of Yirrkala

Somerville Community Service Award
Ashlee Coleman, 22 of Farrar
Olivia Purdue, 18 of Humpty Doo
Aditi Srinivas, 28 of Darwin

The Coffee Club Fashion Award
Clair Parker, 25 of Wanguri
Jayhannah Nampijinpa Trindorfer, 15 of Alice Springs
Matilda Alegria, 27 of Parap

Genesee & Wyoming Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Celeste Brand, 26 of Alice Springs
Ursula Chubb, 29 of Daguragu Community
Ineke Wallis, 22 of Nhulunbuy

Minister for Territory Families Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Sonia Mu, 25 of Muirhead
Mark Munnich, 24 of Driver
Tenneil Ross, 21 of Wanguri

NT Government Young Carers Award
Eloy Mason, 15 of Alawa
Kyaw Naing John Yusuf, 24 of The Garden
Siwa Boonmanee, 25 of Jingili

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Neily O’Connell, 26 of Araluen
Claire Ryan, 25 of Alice Springs
Philamena McKenzie, 20 of Maningrida

PTTEP Australasia Health and Wellbeing Award
Brittany Ward, 25 of Bees Creek
Rian Smit, 26 of Lyons
Lucas de Toca, 29 of Nhulunbuy

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
Avon Collis, 29 of Darwin
Jessica Dix, 29 of Berrimah
Jamie Kokles-Ridgway, 25 of Nhulunbuy
Sally Anne Illingworth 29, of Parap

ConocoPhillips Environment Award
Leslie Pyne, 26 of Alyangula
Alyson Stobo-Wilson, 27 of Darwin
Madeline Goddard, 28 of Alawa

Charles Darwin University Arts Award
Eleanor Dixon, 25 of Elliott
Ciella Williams, 26 of Rapid Creek
Kristy Rickert, 29 of Rapid Creek

 

2016 Finalists

PTTEP Australasia Health and Wellbeing Award
Carly Clyant, 26 of ALICE SPRINGS
Jessica Webb, 25 of COCONUT GROVE
Rebecca Ellison, 27 of ALAWA

NT Government Young Carer's Award
Bethany Bre-Ann O'Shea, 17 of DRIVER
Eloy Mason, 14 of ALAWA
Jessica Puetz, 20 of WANGURI
Kyaw Naing, 23 of THE GARDEN

ConocoPhillips Environment Award
Amanda Lilleyman, 28 of DARWIN
Meg Humphrys, 25 of ALICE SPRINGS
Raine Pugh, 28 of KATHERINE

Genesee & Wyoming Australia Indigenous Achievement Award
Benjamin Kenny, 29 of ALICE SPRINGS
Ethan Satour, 21 of ALICE SPRINGS
Jerome Gilbert, 23 of NAUIYU
Quitaysha Thompson, 26 of MUIRHEAD

NT Government Small Business Achievement Award
Avon Collis, 28 of DARWIN
Brooke Ottley, 26 of MILLNER
Trevor Oliver, 27 of LUDMILLA

Charles Darwin University Arts Award
Eleanor Dixon, 24 of ELLIOTT
Hayley Kelly, 18 of ANULA
Jeremiah Rasing, 25 of MILLNER
Jonathon Saunders, 29 of MOULDEN

AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award
Jessica Webb, 25 of COCONUT GROVE
Jessie Spargo, 23 of RAPID CREEK
Philadelphia Hughes, 27 of MARRARA
Taylor Fishlock, 23 of KATHERINE

Glencore McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Eleanor Dixon, 24 of ELLIOTT
Erika Hamilton, 18 of ALICE SPRINGS
Ryan Gaskon, 18 of ALICE SPRINGS

Somerville Community Service Award
Alicia Kent, 22 of KARAMA
Jarrod John Rollo, 15 of KARAMA
Nicole Richards, 24 of ALICE SPRINGS
Tristan Perriam, 20 of BELLAMACK

NT Government Young Indigenous Educator Award
Anjelica Nyanganyanga Durrurrnga, ofRAMINGINIMG
Kate Axten, 26 of ALICE SPRINGS
Lisa Kunoth, 28 of UTOPIA

Zip Print Sports Award
Abby Cubillo, 16 of KARAMA
Bryce Fullwood, 17 of WINNELLIE
Jacob Moore, 16 of ALICE SPRINGS
Katelyn Simpson, 13 of PALMERSTON

Minister for Young Territorians Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Brittany Ward, 25 of BEES CREEK
Ira Racines, 26 of ROSEBERY
Sarah McLaughlin, 21 of DURACK

 

2015 Finalists

The Northern Territory Government Small Business Achievement Award
Jared Baldwin - Tennant Creek 
Louisa Ainsworth - Darwin
Phillip Hoare - Darwin

The Charles Darwin University Arts Award
Emma Williams - Darwin
Joshua Bonson - Darwin
Tiffany Cornell - Darwin

The McArthur River Mining Regional and Rural Initiative Award
Emily Williams - Humpty Doo
Roger Wilykua - Titjkala
Skye Clayton - Alice Springs

The Minister for Young Territorians Excellence in Youth Leadership Award
Alpha Capaque - Darwin
Daniel Hamilton - Darwin
Skye Clayton - Alice Springs

The Somerville Community Services Award
Brennan Prior - Darwin
Caleb Maru - Alice Springs
Christine Gardiner - Darwin

The Northern Territory Government Young Carers Award
Emily Osborne - Darwin
Jauhari Wright - Darwin
Vanessa Tan - Darwin

The Conocophillips Environment Award
Alice Eather - Maningrida
Lachlan Casburn - Humpty Doo
Richard Dhamarrandji - Elcho Island

The PTTEP Australasia Health & Wellbeing Award
Bridie Gould - Darwin
Corey Cronin
Evelyna Dhamarrandji - Elcho Island

The AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award
Amanda Lilleyman - Darwin
Dr Brenton Wilson - Darwin
Nathan Fanning - Darwin