2017 category winners onstage together at the Gala Presentation Dinner.
Erin Fowler, 28 of Adelaide is a dancer, choreographer and musician. Her award winning, environmental dance film “Gaia” has been screened across the world at 23 film festivals. Erin is working on a documentary investigating the environmental and culturally significant sacred river Nila in Southern India. In 2013 Erin started “The Mill”, with co-Artistic Director, Amber Cronin, a creative hub for local artists with an internationally reaching program of opportunities. Since inception, "The Mill” has raised over $150,000 in funds to support artists.
Ellie Lovegrove, 22 of Bellevue Heights is a proud Ngarrindjeri woman, a singer and a member of the Tal-Kin-Jeri Dance Group. She has toured throughout Australia, creating music that empowers; celebrates her Aboriginality and challenges negative stereotypes. Ellie visits schools and speaks to students about racism and building resilience. She presented at the Aboriginal Youth Engagement Creative Health Workshop educating young people on sexual health and safety. Ellie mentors young Aboriginal people and is a role model by example.
Kbora Ali, 19 of Keswick arrived from Afghanistan in 2007 as a refugee. At school, she organised and ran cultural events promoting unity and acceptance of diverse cultures and beliefs. Kbora was a significant part of the #achildlikeme initiative, supporting and creating awareness for children locked up in Australian detention centres. She achieved an ATAR of 97, is an international Martial arts competitor and the first female of Muslim Afghan refugee background to be recruited in the Australian Army.
Emma Kelly, 22 of Walkerville initiated the Yalata Kidney Health Festival. Six medical and nursing students travelled to the remote indigenous community of Yalata to run educational and fun workshops and activities at the local school and healthcare centres. Hosted over three days, the Festival has a strong emphasis on teaching and inspiring community members on ways to maintain good kidney health. Emma has been invited to present about the festival at the WONCA Rural Health Conference.
Jackson Wickham, 17 of Renmark is the youngest ever deckhand on the PS Industry, an antique paddle steamer and tourist attraction. He is on the PS Industry management committee and is the editor of their newsletter. He is also a member of Cobdogla Steam & Irrigation Museum and Bangalore Homestead. Jackson has also attained his bronze medallion, white card and boat license. Jackson won Renmark’s 2015 Young Citizen of the year and his goal is to be a Murray Master.
Elisabeth Beltrame, 28 of Marleston has been an active leader in Rotary International for over eight years and facilitates the Rotary Youth Leadership and Enrichment Programs. In 2012, Elisabeth established the Rotaract Club of Adelaide City for 18-30 year old's. Last year, she became the youngest President in the District. She has brought to her club fresh ideas and young members with a focus on fundraising for youth and women in developing countries and empowering women through education.
Ysabella Van Sebille, 27 of Beulah Park is completing her PhD researching the toxic effects of anti-cancer therapies on the gastrointestinal tract. Her research has been translated into clinical trials and has received many awards. Ysabella has been invited to write the international clinical guidelines for the prevention and management of mucositis. Ysabella is an ambassador for women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine. She mentors students and volunteers as a tutor for the Australian Refugee Association.
Tessa Henwood-Mitchell, 29 of Aldinga Beach founded not-for-profit organisation TIA (Spanish for Aunty) in 2009. TIA’s ValenTIA (meaning ‘courage’) Transition Program, has provided workshops for 100 Bolivian teenagers to support transition into independent living after exiting state care. Tessa has raised over $200,000 and TIA has 4 local Bolivian staff and over 100 volunteers. TIA also created a music and computer program for blind and vision impaired children and repaired a broken water system at a children’s home in Bolivia.
Emmah Evans, 29 of Woodcroft is a Cystic Fibrosis fighter, a Mother, a wife, an author and a motivational speaker. She is an Ambassador for both Cure4CF Foundation and Cystic Fibrosis Australia. Emmah has been interviewed on television and press, raising awareness that 1 in 25 people carry the CF gene. In 2016, she spent over 500 hours organising a high tea ‘Fearless’, raising over $14,000 for Cure4CF Foundation. Her Facebook page “CF Mummy” has 3,400 followers.
Kyle Chalmers OAM, 18 of Glenelg North was the first Australian in 48 years to win Gold in the 100m Freestyle. He left the 2016 Rio Olympics with an additional 2 Bronze medals in the 4x100m freestyle and medley relays. He was awarded the 2016 Male Sports Person of the Year and recently was inducted into the South Australian Swimming Hall of Fame. This year, Kyle was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his services to swimming.
The 2016 category winners onstage together at the Gala Presentation Dinner, along with MC for the evening Will McDonald, Presenter, Nine News.
Marcellus Enalanga, 19 of Port Pirie has been a key driver in developing a Youth Engagement Strategy in conjunction with Aboriginal Health Workers. Volunteering with Country Health SA, Marcellus organised a South Australian Aboriginal Youth Summit and Tarpari Wellbeing Day, showcasing Aboriginal health and culture. He is an active member of the SA Youth Parliament and a Taskforce Mentor. This year, Marcellus will travel to Vanuatu for the Australian Volunteers International Indigenous Youth Challenge Program. The skills and knowledge gained will assist Marcellus in his own community.
The Honourable Susan Close MP, Minister for Education and Child Development presents Marcellus Enalanga as the 2016 Premier's Channel 9 Young Achiever of the Year.
Jasmin Parasiers, 23 of Woodville Park is the founder of Intuition Tutoring Services and has been tutoring students for the past eight years. In addition to running her own business, Jasmin is completing a PhD in History and works full time as a Research Project Co-ordinator. She has been elected the Secretary of the Association of Secondary Research Teachers and works heavily in assessment leadership. In 2014, Jasmine was a winner in the Anthill Magazine’s 2014 Young Entrepreneur 30 Under 30 Award.
Randolph Nevis, Business Partnership Manager, AustralianSuper presented Jasmin Parasiers with the Career Kick Start Award.
Madison Turley, 16 of Port Elliot has created an environmental program called “Don't Waste Our Wave”. She has educated over 400 students and young lifesavers about the environmental impact of rubbish. A member of the EcoSurf group, Maddie spearheaded the “What Lies Beneath” Project, developing education resources for over 3,000 junior surf life savers. She presented the “What Lies Beneath project” at the 2015 SA State Coastal Conference. In 2014 Maddie received the Middle School Mayo Leadership Award and 2015, the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership Award.
Alison Snel (left), Communications & Marketing Manager, Flinders Ports presented Madison Turley (right) with the Enviornment Award.
Zoe Bogner, 28 of Seacliff Park is an online developer, using digital tools to improve wellbeing, safety and storytelling. Zoe set up the online platform The Learning Together project; for children and families living with diabetes. The Healthy Kids Check Project was an initiative for the Women’s and Children’s Hospital improving the standard of child health checks. Volunteering with ActNow Theatre, Zoe coordinated social media campaigns, digital media, online presence and advertising. She also developed web applications to be used in theatre performances and workshops.
Jessica Doherty (left), Chief of Staff, Hostworks presented Zoe Bogner (right) with the Online Achievement Award.
Aref Ahmadi, 25 of Brooklyn Park was only 14 when his family fled Afghanistan and arrived in Australia as refugees. He graduated in 2013 and works as a full time accountant. Aref has volunteered for 5 years mentoring 'At Risk' young people, assisting them to successfully complete schooling. He has raised over $5,000 for the Grange Lawn Tennis Club, where he is also Treasurer. Aref hosts an annual multicultural tennis tournament, encouraging refugee kids to get involved, breaking down barriers to settlement like racism and social isolation.
Tamara Stewart-Jones, Director, Multicultural Youth SA presented Aref Ahmadi with the Spirit of Resilience Award.
Kimberley Hunter, 23 of North Plympton is using her skills as an Occupational Therapist to help bring about change to social determinants impacting on the health of Indigenous people. During her studies, Kimberley visited central Australia to promote health careers and volunteered for AIME, mentoring Indigenous High School students. Kimberley is a member of the Indigenous Allied Health Australia Group and presented at the 2015 national conference, also winning the ‘Future Leader in Indigenous Allied Health Award’. She is currently working at the UniSA, Department of Rural Health as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Allied Health Officer.
The Honourable Susan Close MP (left), Minister for Education and Child Development presented Kimberley Hunter (right) with the Aboriginal Achievement Award.
Tamra Karolewicz, 23 of Port Lincoln has a Bachelor of Medical Science, Masters of Optometry and in 2014 received the Clinical Excellence Award in Optometry. In addition to her optometry work in Port Lincoln and significant voluntary commitment, she undertakes fortnightly trips to Ceduna to give eye care to Indigenous communities and people living in remote areas. This year, Tamra aims to implement a new culturally safe eye examination procedure to benefit Indigenous communities, and a school policy to protect children’s vision.
Angela Tridente (left), Director, Recruitment, Rural Doctors Workforce Agency presented Tamra Karolewicz (right) with the Rural Health Award.
Mark Mayfield (left), Stakeholder Adviser, Santos Limited presented Marcellus Enalanga (right) with the Regional Service Award.
Callum Pope, 18 of Rostrevor was a participant just three years ago with The Operation Flinders Foundation, a wilderness adventure program for young offenders and young people at risk. After successfully completing three training weekends, Callum progressed to become a Peer Group Mentor. Staff at the Foundation describe him as “a great mentor, role model and a leader.” Callum volunteers, assists with school drama productions, and balances his schooling with caring for his father who has Cerebral Palsy. Callum has applied to join the Army to further develop his leadership skills.
Harry Long, Chief Commissioner, Scouts SA presented Callum Pope with the Leadership Award.
Donovan Christie, 26 of Goodwood is an established visual artist specialising in urban landscapes and streetscapes. He has had 13 solo exhibitions, been a part of over 100 group exhibitions, ran his own art gallery and curated over 30 exhibitions. Donovan works with HYPA to hold workshops for at risk teens in the community and has donated several art pieces to charity auctions, including painting live in front of 300 guests at the Sight for All charity fundraiser. Donovan has won many awards and prizes and was recently featured in the Wonderwalls Exhibition.
John Lazarou (left), Director, The Coffee Club presented Donovan Christie (right) with the Arts and Fashion Award.
Hannah Wardill, 25 of Adelaide is currently completing her PhD in Medicine, focusing on some of the most debilitating side effects associated with anti-cancer treatment. She has been invited to visit international research laboratories and present her work at international cancer research symposiums. Hannah was invited to the University of California, San Diego to present her most recent research at the Biomedical Research Facility. She has published extensively and has received extensive media exposure. Hannah’s research has the real potential to positively impact the clinical outcomes for cancer patients.
Professor Robert Hill, Executive Dean, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Adelaide presented Hannah Wardill with the Science and Technology Award.
Rohan Dennis, 25 of Vale Park was the first yellow jersey wearer in the 2015 Tour de France and established a new record average speed for an individual time trial. He was a silver medal winner in the team pursuit at the 2012 Olympic Games and was second in the 2014 Commonwealth Games time trial. He won the 2015 USA Pro Challenge leading both the sprint and mountain classifications after four stages. In an epic battle, Rohan took out the overall victory in the 2015 Santos Tour Down Under.
Rob Dallimore (left), Managing Director, Worldwide Printing Solutions announced Rohan Dennis (pictured insert) as the Sports Award winner. Rohan was in Spain preparing for upcoming events and was represented by his father Russell (right).
2015 Channel 9 Young Achiever Award winners onstage at the Gala Presentation Dinner, held Saturday 28th March 2015 at the Hilton Adelaide.
Mike Worsman, 28 of Aldinga is the founder of “A Million Smiles” a beautifully innovative website. The mission is to connect people on a grand scale by sharing their stories and smiles and to in turn make others smile. People from war torn Afghanistan and the frozen abyss of Antarctica, to the depths of the Amazon, upload their smiling photos and share their astonishing stories, creating the largest existing body of work on Facebook. “A Million Smiles” has been seen worldwide by more than two million viewers and the journey of travel and smiles will culminate into a feature film and book.
Dr. Suzanne Mashtoub, 27 of Linden Park was awarded a highly competitive National Health and Medical Research Council Postdoctoral Fellowship. Her PhD research was to determine whether orally-administered Emu Oil can reduce the severity of acute and chronic Crohn's and ulcerative colitis and prevent the development of colorectal cancer. Suzanne has published six first-authored research papers, four non-first authored research papers, thirty conference abstracts, presented at thirteen international conferences and twenty-seven national conferences. She has also undertaken three international laboratory placements. In addition to her passion for science, Suzanne serves as a youth advisor on committees and associations representing culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Saskia Gerhardy, 19 of Willunga is studying a Bachelor in Biodiversity and Conservation. She volunteers for Trees for Life, Adelaide Mount Lofty Rangers Natural Resource Management and Willunga Landcare Group. Saskia dedicates herself to rescuing orphaned, injured or sick animals and assists in programs to monitor endangered animals such as Greater Bilbies, Burrowing Bettongs and Southern Hairy Nosed wombats. She leads a group of young environmentalists encouraging them to be active in local community environmental projects and has recently been appointed as a School Services Officer at Willunga Primary School to coordinate and deliver the EnviroKids Program.
Jessica Wishart, 25 of Christie Downs works full time as the Aboriginal Education Worker at Christies Beach High School. She is also a single parent with two small children, plays rugby and sings in a band. She is the coordinator of the Nunga Tag Carnival, a competition in conjunction with the NRL providing Nunga students and family members with the opportunity to participate and engage in a positive environment. Jessica also coordinates a weekly Aboriginal Girls group with their small catering and entertainment business and through ExpressWay Arts is collaborating to develop a creative Nunga's group to connect with Aboriginal young people.
Amy Roberts, 26 of Adelaide was passionate about developing an Australian ethical and sustainable clothing brand and so she launched her own clothing line. Vege Threads is a beautifully simplistic, Australian eco fashion label which Amy sells online, to stockists around Australia and at her own shop “The Town Local”. She has worked hard to establish strong offshore environmentally friendly production standards and was able to bring 90% of production back to Australia, achieving an Ethical Clothing Australia Certification. She donates a portion of profits to the Peduli Sesama Philanthropic Work foundation in North Bali, assisting the local community with medical aid.
Brock Wilkins, 19 of Yaninee began working at Wudinna Hospital at 16 as a school based apprentice and then completed a Certificate III in Aged Care. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing, working at the hospital during his holidays. Brock received the 2012 Wudinna District Council Australian Young Citizen of the Year Award and was interviewed on “The Project" about life as a young country boy and his rural health work. Also an active member of the local ambulance service, Brock has completed the first two of three blocks to become a qualified Ambulance officer.
Georgie Parker, 24 of Unley has represented Australia as a Hockeyroo since 2011. Georgie has moved to Perth to be with the Hockeyroo’s team, training at the Hockey Australia Elite Training Centre. With her trademark lethal back-stick tomahawk shot, Georgie contributed to the teams Gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, Silver at the 2014 World Cup, 1st place in the 2013 Oceania Cup and the World League Semi Finals. Georgie is passionate about creating awareness for Mental Health issues and suicide prevention and hopes soon to become an Ambassador. She is currently studying journalism and would love to forge a career in the AFL media arena.
Dave Court, 23 of Wynn Vale has a Bachelor with Honours in Visual Arts and a Certificate 4 in Small Business Management. He is a curator and exhibitor at many shows, festivals and galleries. Last year Dave received the Best Social Innovation and Cultural Initiative Award in the Renew Adelaide Awards and was selected to exhibit in the Helpmann Academy Graduate exhibition. He has created his own clothing brand, “foolsandtrolls” which has been certified by Ethical Clothing Australia. With a passion for promoting South Australian clothing designers, Dave showcases young SA artists and clothing and accessory designers in his new fashion store “Created Range”.
Marziya Mohammadi, 22 of Parafield Gardens is committed to contributing to her community as a dedicated volunteer for the Welcome to Australia SA program. Arriving in 2006 as a refugee with only basic English, Marziya is now a guest speaker for Welcome to Australia at many schools, public events and seminars. Currently studying Law, Marziya has spoken on television, radio and at events around Australia about refugee and human rights advocacy. She is the co-founder and designer of “Our English Tea” project, which was created to help women with low levels of literacy learn English and engage in Australian society.
2014 Channel 9 Young Achiever Award winners with Brenton Ragless, Nine News.
Kristin Carson, 28 of Somerton Park scraped through year 12 with barely a pass. Kristin was unable to gain entry to study Science at University. But not letting this deter her, she studied at TAFE whilst working multiple jobs as a Research Assistant. Eventually she gained admission to The University of Adelaide to study a PhD in Medicine. Kristin is now one of the youngest Senior Medical Research Scientists at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and is responsible for over 40 projects and 25 researchers. On top of all of this, Kristin also co-owns a Subway franchise where she works on weekends and public holidays.
Sam Faulkner & Jason Smith, both 25 of Adelaide have a passion for working in online environments. In 2010, Sam and Jason co-founded software development company ALL MY I.T. With Sam’s database and web designing skills and Jason’s coding skills, they quickly established themselves at the forefront of the industry. In 2013, Jason and Sam developed the application SocialActive, which received a Premier's Award and several other accolades. Through ALL MY I.T. Sam and Jason continue to help local and national companies reach a wider audience using online solutions.
Alysha Herrmann, 28 of the Riverland is a regional artist, mentor and advocate and uses art as a tool for community and cultural development. Alysha empowers young people to claim personal and civic space through creative expression. Alysha is a playwright, poet and performer, having presented work at numerous exhibitions and installations across Australia. She is also the Creative Producer of Express Way Arts an initiative of Carclew and the City of Onkaparinga to provide arts activities and events to young people in the Southern suburbs.
Tjimarri Sanderson-Milera, 20 of Grange has dedicated himself to getting the most out of life and has positioned himself as a high performance athlete, a senior staff member with Qantas and a leader and role model within the community. Tjimarri has competed internationally in surf live saving and has transitioned into sprinting, training five times a week. Tjimarri is a strong advocate for cultural understanding, taking opportunities through sport and his work with Qantas to share culture and stories through dance. Tjimarri’s extensive community involvement includes dance groups, volunteering and presentations on healthy life style and fitness.
Besmellah Rezaee, 27 of Para Hills arrived in Adelaide as a refugee nine years ago. In this short time, he has shown dedication to helping others through volunteering, establishing numerous community projects and his work as an interpreter in remote detention centres with the Department of Immigration. Besmellah’s career as a lawyer in the field of Refugee and Migration law has had a positive impact and successful start, receiving the award for Young Migration Lawyer of the Year. Besmellah has completed a Master of International Law and plans to undertake another Master degree in the field of Human Rights.
Sarah Catalano, 25 of Tea Tree Gullyhas completed research on the dicyemid parasite fauna of southern Australian squid, octopus and cuttlefish species. She formally described 10 new dicyemid parasite species, representing the first new species descriptions from Australian waters. Sarah also used a novel approach of dicyemid parasites as biological tags to assess host population structure, with particular focus on the iconic giant Australian cuttlefish. Her findings support the split of the giant Australian cuttlefish into distinct populations based on locality, suggesting management efforts need to be locally-focused. Sarah has received a Dean’s Commendation for Doctoral Thesis Excellence for her PhD research.
Alex Edmondson, 20 of Bridgewater sustained a serious knee injury in 2010. After regaining his fitness, and at just 18, he became the second youngest cyclist to make the Australian Olympic Team. The disappointment of not riding at the Olympics did not deter Alex who in 2013 won Gold in the Men's Team Pursuit at the UCI Track World Track Championships in Belarus. Alex became a three time World Champion after winning Gold in the Individual Pursuit and the Team Pursuit at the 2014 UCI Track World Track Championships in Colombia.
Jessica Mitchell, 27 of Angaston is committed to helping individuals living with chronic lung disease. Jessica has been instrumental in implementing the successful Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program across the Inner North Country Health Service. The program empowers individuals with the knowledge and skills to self-manage their chronic lung conditions and improve their quality of life. Jessica spends much of her own time assisting clients with one on one care, establishing ongoing support groups and developing strong links with community health services.
Cr David Speirs, 27 of Kingston Park migrated to Australia in 2002 and has a passion for the environment and serving the community. He is a competitive surf life saver and National Director of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. In 2010, he became the youngest person elected to the City of Marion Council and now serves as Deputy Mayor. He is a youth leader at Edwardstown Baptist Church and led two groups of volunteers to build houses in Uganda. In 2009 he was awarded Young Citizen of the Year by the City of Marion, and in 2010 the St Louise de Marillac Award for Social Justice Leadership Action.
Michael Richards, 25 of Sommerton is a filmmaker with a keen interest in Stop-motion, technical animation and effects. In 2005, Michael secured a three year scholarship studying film and Television at Bond University and has also completed a Certificate IV in Screen Studies. Michael established his studio GooRoo Animation in 2006. He has received many accolades, including The South Australia Screen Awards, The Australian Teachers of Media Award, The Australian Cinematographers Society and Tropfest where his film won 2nd Prize in 2010. Michael's films have also been screened in numerous international film festivals.
Hannah Davis, 26 of Glenelg was identified by the SASI Talent ID program as a candidate for kayaking at the age of 14. She has held a SASI scholarship ever since and an AIS scholarship since 2005. At the 2008 Beijing Olympics Hannah won a Bronze medal in the ladies K4 500 metre event. At the 2011 World Championships, Hannah placed 5th in the ladies K4 500 earning Olympic Qualification. She also won a Bronze medal in the ladies K2 200 metre event. Hannah actively supports numerous community initiatives, junior paddlers and is the Women's Captain for the Australian National Sprint Kayak team.
Adam Kilpatrick, 27 of North Adelaide is passionate about biodiversity, conservation and management in arid environments. He is committed to using his scientific knowledge to make a positive contribution to the conservation and management of rangelands. Through his PhD at the University of Adelaide, Adam has developed ground breaking new methods for monitoring rangelands condition. This is achieved using satellite remote sensing technology,known as cross-fence comparison monitoring methodology. Adam has also contributed to several important environmental research projects.
Renae Kirkham, 25 of Port Augusta is a dedicated community leader. She works with Aboriginalgroups to alleviate disadvantage and improve the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people. Renae, through her PhD, is exploring the roles of Specialised Aboriginal Maternal Infant Care workers in Country Health SA's Aboriginal Family Birthing Program. She has also undertaken many other initiatives to improve Aboriginal health and wellbeing, often in a voluntary capacity. This includes facilitating a weekly Girls' Group through the Port Augusta Youth Centre attracting up to 20 participants each week.
Dr Ashley Flavel, 28 of Northgate designs technologies that improve the speed of the internet. His vision for cloud computing, content delivery and distributed systems is currently improving internet services throughout the world. After 3 years with AT&T Labs in New York, Ashley recently joined Microsoft. He is now creating solutions that reduce the time it takes for users to interact with the thousands of globally distributed servers powering Bing. Ashley has a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Adelaide, has published many papers, presented at international conferences and leading universities and has numerous patents.
Raquel Kerdel, 22 of Seaview Downs is of Kokotha/Wirangu heritage. She began influencing the wider community about Aboriginal history and stories at the age of ten. Raquel was the double to the lead character in the film Rabbit Proof Fence. She already has a long involvement of promoting reconciliation and is a representative for young Aboriginal women on a number of state and national government committees. Raquel is a peer educator and mentor with the Marion Youth Group and is the youngest of the seven cast members of Sista Act: Women of Country Theatre/Musical Group.
Chris Doening, 27 of Paradise wanted to own a building company from a young age. Through study and hard work in various areas of construction, he became the youngest person in Australia, at 20, to become a registered builder and supervisor for residential construction. Starting his company with a few jobs on the side, Chris quickly progressed from building two houses in a year to ten. In 2008, he decided to focus full time on his company, "Endeavour Quality Homes". The business now has five full time office staff including his previous boss, and over 120 sub contractors, building 50 houses a year, and growing.
Ben Gray, 23 of Largs Bay commenced an apprenticeship in carpentry at the age of 17. He was placed with "Stevens Carpentry" and excelled. He mastered all areas of work and took on significant responsibility becoming the benchmark for quality workmanship. After his second year, Ben was promoted to onsite manager. He was later awarded '3rd Year Carpentry Apprentice of the Year' and completed his apprenticeship a year early. In his first week as tradesman, Ben purchased a half share of "Stevens Carpentry" and a year later purchased a half share in "Steven's Structural", becoming a partnering Director.
Keyvan Abak, 26 of Glengowrie came to Australia as a refugee. He now has a Bachelor of Social Work and Masters in Mediation and Conflict Management. Keyvan worked with familiesSA as a mentor for newly arrived young refugees. He then moved to the Marion Youth Centre with the Department of Health, working closely with Refugees, Indigenous and other young people. There he developed a program called the African and Middle Eastern Young Peoples Program. Keyvan is currently employed withNazareth Catholic Community and is a PhD Candidate at Flinders University.
Timothy Braund, 18 of Wayville works with the Mental Illness Fellowship to de-stigmatise mental illness. He is also a Youth Advisor for the HeadStart Program and Youth Mentor for the Carers Support and Respite Centre, Raw Energy Program. Timothy uses his broadcasts on Youth FM radio as a forum for raising awareness and promoting issues. He was involved in the 2009 Youth Parliament Program, a member of the Policy Council of the Youth Affairs Council of SA and the Office for Youth A-Team Program. He is also active with the Unley Youth Advisory Committee and many other youth initiatives and events.
Paul Vasileff, 20 of Seaton is a fashion designer working hard to push the boundaries of Adelaide fashion. His label Paolo Sebastian has achieved numerous awards. He won the Vogue Italia and Swarovski Crystal Bride award and a European designer competition. Paul's designs were showcased in London fashion week 2010 and in Sposabella Vogue Magazine. Known for his creativity and craftsmanship he strives to recapture the dying art of couture. After winning the 2010 Landerer Scholarship he went to Milan, Italy to study Fashion and Textile Design at the renowned Instituto Europeo di Design.
Grace Bowman, 20 of Greenacres had a horse riding accident in 2002, leaving her a paraplegic. Grace worked extremely hard to get back in the saddle. She has won 5 consecutive Riding for the Disabled state dressage titles and two national titles. In 2008, Grace made history as the first ever South Australian Para-Equestrian to be selected to represent Australia at a Paralympic Games, finishing 7th in her event. Grace placed first at a Para-Equestrian event last year and attended the World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky. She is ranked number one in Australia and number 4 in the world.
Kaitlin Taylor, 15 of Kingscote is a passionate volunteer for the environment whilst also achieving excellence at school and in Sailing and Kyokushin Karate. She is a member of the Youth Environment Council and attends forums including The National Landcare Conference in Adelaide and A Brush with Biodiversity Forum in Kingscote. With two fellow students, she presented the Kangaroo Island Community Education Black Bream Project to the Murray-Darling Basin Authority International River Health Conference in Canberra. Kaitlin has won several Environment and Community Awards.
Amelia Lange, 27 of Clare graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science and is a registered Exercise Physiologist. Through her business "Better Bodz For Life", she has implemented cardiovascular and respiratory rehabilitation programs and group fitness programs for all ages. She is a coach for the Australian Sports Commission-Active After School Program, and has been awarded the Community Coach Award. Amelia is a member of many associations and is involved in numerous community events and programs. She represented South Australia in the 2010 state hockey country championships.
Laura Brooks, 28 of Ingle Farm has a BE with honours and PhD from the University of Adelaide where she is now a lecturer. She spent two years at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, California as a Fulbright Scholar, and then eighteen months as a post-doctoral research fellow at the Victorian University of Wellington. Laura has been successful in attracting five million dollars in research funding, and her numerous publications include underwater acoustics, active noise control, signal processing, geophysics and engineering education. She has presented her work at conferences in Australia, New Zealand, USA and Europe.
Dean Barnett, 21 of Glossop is Membership Coordinator of the Barmera Rotary Club and sits on various committees including as Vice Chair of Berri Barmera Youth and Council Unite. Dean completed the Rotary Youth Leadership Award in 2009 and assists with running the youth camps. He is involved with White Ribbon Day and is a committee member of Relay for Life. He is a participant in the Youth Parliament program and the Riverland Office for Youth A-Team. He is a mentor for disadvantaged youth as part of the Crime Prevention Program and is studying Certificate IV in Youth Work.
Rebecca Richards, 24 of Brooklyn achieved Honours in Psychology and Anthropology at the University of Adelaide. She is an Adnyamathana woman with a passion for Aboriginal anthropological research having completed three cadetships at the National Museum. She was a member of the Minister's Youth Council, Rotary Health Research Fund, Young Indigenous Professionals Group and the Indigenous Youth Mobility Program. She is an advocate for Indigenous health and attended the United Nations Forum on Indigenous issues in New York. Rebecca is the first indigenous person to be offered a Rhodes Scholarship.
Suzanne Mashtoub Abimosleh, 23 of Hillcrest is a PhD student at The University of Adelaide. She is researching the application of Emu Oil for the treatment of acute inflammatory bowel disease. Suzanne has made national and international presentations and her work has been published. She organises events during National Science Week and is an executive committee member of the Young Australian Lebanese Association. She is Chairperson of the Young Druze Professionals of SA and is also on the Multicultural Education Advisory Committee.
Deanna Lush, 28 of Unley began her career as a journalist with Rural Press. She then became a member of the Premier's Media Unit, advising the former Minister for Water before being appointed editor of the Stock Journal newspaper. Deanna manages a team of eight staff and numerous other contributors to deliver the latest agricultural news. She was the 2005 South Australian Rural Journalist of the Year and has started her own farm business at Palmer, with plans to expand in the future. She is also studying a Masters of Business Administration, enjoys netball, piano and renovating her 1920's farm house.
Sara Bann, 22 of Hackham was placed in foster care from the age of 2. Upon turning 18 she began volunteering with the Hon EP Mullighan, QC for the Children in State Care Commission of Enquiry. The enquiry investigated the sexual abuse and death of foster children under guardianship of the Minister. Sara is passionate about making positive systematic changes to the Foster Care system and is an advisor on change within government and non-government agencies. She is also an advisor for Second Storey Health Service and mentors young people in Foster Care.
Fleur Noble, 25 of Lenswood is a multi award-winning artist and theatre maker. She has studied on full-scholarships in Adelaide and New York and has been involved in numerous national and international arts and theatre projects. Fleur has toured Edinburgh, New Zealand and Europe and is currently on an international tour including Europe, UK, Glasgow, Ireland and Denmark with her most recent performance work "2-Dimensional Life of Her", a unique visual theatre that combines drawing, animation, film, puppetry, projection and paper. She will return to tour this work across Australia mid 2010.
Sam Willoughby, 18 of Trott Park is an elite athlete within the SASI and Cycling Australia High Performance Team. Sam won back to back Junior Elite World BMX Titles in 2008 and 2009. He is the youngest ever winner of the UCI Elite Men World Cup Supercross event and represented Australia in the UCI Supercross in South Africa winning his first race in the Elite Mens class. Sam won the Junior Elite Men Cyclist of the Year Award in 2008 in the areas of BMX and Mountain Bikes and in 2009 won both the Junior Elite and Elite Men Cycling Australia Cyclist of the Year Awards.
Jason Tyndall, 26 of Glenelg North is an unpretentious and effective leader in environmental management and conservation. His achievements and engagement of the community in environmental management are remarkable. With great success in his full-time position as Coast and Biodiversity Project Officer at the City of Holdfast Bay and part-time University of SA studies in Biodiversity, Environmental and Park Management, he also manages to be an outstanding volunteer on numerous conservation projects. He also speaks to community groups and students and works with schools on curriculum packages.
Tara Pukala, 28 of Largs Bay has a Bachelor of Science and PhD with the University of Adelaide. She is the first female to be appointed to a senior lecturing role in the Chemistry Department at the University. She leads a research group focused on developing new approaches towards understanding the structure and interaction of protein complexes. Tara hopes this research will revolutionise our understanding of biological processes and lead to new advances for therapeutic intervention for a range of human diseases. She has won numerous awards, has published her findings internationally and is a regular speaker at international conferences.
Jasmin Piggott, 20 of Cowell started a dance studio in 2007 with 40 students and now has over 215. She travels 600 kilometres each week teaching classical jazz and tap. Jasmin choreographs dance routines and sews costumes for her students who perform in numerous events and concerts. She travels extensively to workshops to bring back new ideas and experience. Jasmin organises many community events such as a CD launch for an Adelaide band. She also umpires, volunteers in the canteen and helps with strapping and first aid for the local sporting club's netball and football teams and plays netball.
Vincent Buckskin, 23 of Pooraka is a Kaurna man and the only young Aboriginal person teaching the endangered Kaurna Language. Vincent better known as Jack started officially learning the Kaurna language in 2006 and began teaching Kaurna in schools in 2008. He also teaches youth in juvenile detention. Dr Rob Amery a linguistic and Kaurna teacher at the University of Adelaide is Jack's mentor. Jack speaks at numerous schools, health and government conferences and workshops. Jack also has his own dance group called Kuma Karro.
Jessica Roberts, 25 of Tranmere has been a volunteer and employee in local NGO World Youth International for the past 5 years and is currently Overseas Programs Manager. Her commitment to eliminating poverty has had an enormous impact on the lives of children globally. Jessica has been a driving force for positive and instrumental growth of volunteer programs. She is the Co-founder of charitable organisation Pathway to Opportunity and has volunteered in Kenya and Uganda and was a team leader in Nepal. Jessica is committed to empowering young Australians to make meaningful contributions to the local and global community.
Glenn Docherty, 25 of Elizabeth East has been a volunteer with St John Ambulance for over 10 years and has given over 5,000 hours of his time. He is Superintendent of the Playford Cadet Division managing and mentoring 20 young people. Glenn is Past President of the St John SA Youth Council and is a member of the Australian Youth Council. He has served as a Councillor with the City of Playford for 5 years, 3 as Deputy Lord Mayor. Glenn is passionate about making a safer, stronger and brighter future for people of the Northern Suburbs. He gives around 20 hours a week to Council and community activities. Glenn is on numerous committees, attends countless events, openings and presentations.
Danielle Catanzariti, 17 of Murray Bridge started acting at the age of 10 with theatre group Murray Bridge Players and Singers. She won her first feature film role in 2007, cast as Esther Blueburger in the feature film, “Hey Hey It’s Esther Blueburger”, starring opposite Toni Collette, Essie Davis and Keisha Castle Hughes. Danielle was cast in the prestigious Sydney Theatre Company’s 2008 season play ‘Blackbird’. She was handpicked by Cate Blanchett who directed the play which led Danielle to overseas performances. She starred opposite Natalie Imbruglia in the Australian feature film ‘Closed for Winter' which was recently released at the Adelaide Film Festival. In December Danielle won the L'Oreal Paris Australian Film Institute Awards for Young Actor.
Hannah Davis, 23 of Glenelg is an Elite Athlete within the SASI Canoe/Kayak Program. Hannah won the 2007 Ladies K1 National Championship and is the youngest winner ever in the event. She represented Australia at the Global Young Leaders Summit in Prague and is an active member of the Glenelg Surf Club. In 2008 Hannah put her career on hold to prepare for Beijing, training up to 15 times a week and travelling extensively to compete. She turned down employment and deferred University to focus on the Olympics. Hannah won Bronze in Beijing in the Women’s’ K4 500 metres and finished 6th in the K2 500 metres. She was the youngest member of the team and hopes to continue her success at the 2012 Olympics.
Mark Cawdron White, 19 of Salisbury Park is studying a Bachelor of Sustainable Environments and has a passion for environmental education. He has participated in a series of conferences and congresses including the ECO living Expo and Australian Association for Environmental Educator Conference, and is a regular speaker at schools. Mark has been an active member of environmental groups and is the immediate Past President of the Youth Environment Council. He works with the Department of Environment and Heritage, the Department of Education and Children Services and the City of Salisbury to develop his ideas for environmental education and sustainability to play a key a role in young people’s education.
Julian O'Shea, 24 of Wayville is an electrical engineer in the Royal Australian Navy. His Officer training included a Diploma of Government and a Diploma of Business and Frontline Management. Julian also has a Master of Engineering. He has completed 2 seagoing postings on HMAS Newcastle and participated in deployments in south-east Asia and the Pacific. He was promoted to Lieutenant and Manager of the West Head Gunnery Range where he manages a 15 acre live-fire training facility including handling and stowage of explosives and has a staff of 20. Julian created EngVibe.com.au a website to assist young people in the technical industry and is developing “Kinetic” a free student magazine.
Cadence Minge, 26 of Alberton was named the 2007 Young Investigator of the Year and was selected as a “Fresh Scientist” in a national competition identifying new and exciting research produced by early-career scientists around the country. She was the SA Chair of the Australian Society for Medical Research and was responsible for the coordination and successful execution of the South Australian ASMR Medical Research Week events. Cadence completed her PhD last November. Her studies demonstrated that high dietary fat intake and subsequent maternal obesity damages the eggs stored in the ovary, causing abnormal ovulation and reduced chances of embryonic survival. Cadence’s research has been published in international science journals.
Siobhan Nicholls, 15 of Leigh Creek lives on the remote Maynards Well Station. She has rescued and rehabilitated 8 horses with holistic natural therapies and hand reared a 7 week old orphan filly. Siobhan is training the filly using the Telling Touch Techniques that she is studying remotely. She helps others with their horses and hopes to become a practitioner of natural animal therapy. Siobhan has developed significant networks with state, national and international animal welfare groups and promotes her work at community events. Her work is often published in the local media and is strongly supported by the community. Siobhan has also had significant success in regional gymkhanas winning the Junior Rider award at Maree, Roxby Downs and Angepena.
Wade Thompson, 20 of Clearview left Port Augusta to persue education and his sporting dreams. He enrolled in the SA Aboriginal Sports Training Academy and joined SANFL football club North Adelaide, playing 9 senior games after just 4 years. Wade was picked up by Port Adelaide in the AFL Rookie Draft in December 2008. He is a leader and role model and inspires students at the Academy. Wade coached the Para West Adult Campus team to the Aboriginal Power Cup, teaching them valuable lessons about life as well as football. He now travels the State promoting the Academy. He was the feature of the “Don’t be a school dropout” campaign and is dedicated to helping young indigenous people to make more of their lives.
Khadija Gbla, 20 of Findon is an inspired advocate for equality and a passionate leader of the African community. Khadija was Secretary of the Charles Sturt Youth Advisory Committee and Chair of the Charles Sturt Mental Health subcommittee. She is a youth leader of the Sierra Leonne community and a peer educator with Shine SA. Khadija is a volunteer with the SA Council of Social Services and a cultural consultant with Multicultural Youth SA. She was named the Young Citizen of the Year for Charles Sturt in 2007. Khadija attended the 20/20 Summit in Canberra and is now an advisor for the Federal Minister for Youth, Kate Ellis and is a member of the Office for Youth A Team.
Joelene Schmerl, 24 of Scott Creek sustained severe brain injury as a result of a gymnasium accident when she was only 9, leaving her permanently disabled. Being unable to persue a normal career, Joelene is determined to dedicate herself to caring for others. In 2001 Joelene joined the Rotaract Club of Mount Barker, which is now the only remaining Rotaract Club in SA. She was elected President in 2006 and is an inspiration to other members instigating countless community projects and fundraisers including regular visits to an elderly care facility. Joelene gives everything of herself with more than 5,000 voluntary hours donated to the disabled, elderly and those in need.
Sky Ingram, 23 of Dover Gardens holds a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice Performance with Distinction and a 1st class Honours Degree at the Elder Conservatorium. Sky has been a member of over 14 choirs and has performed at many events, winning numerous prizes and awards including the Nancy Thomas Memorial Prize, Junior Vocal Championship and Neville Hicks Aria Memorial Prize. She has also won 5 music scholarships for voice. Sky has a mentorship through the Helpmann Academy and received the 2005 Christ Church Scholarship as well as the 2005 MBS Young Performers Award for Voice and is the Australian 2006 Young Performer of the Year. Sky is currently studying at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
Ben Wilden, 22 of Woodville West commenced trampoline training with international coach Bob Mildren in 1994 and quickly worked his way to the top. He won the 1994 SA Novice Championship in the 9 to 10 age group and then until 2003 Ben travelled over 1,000 km’s each week from Murray Bridge to train. Ben competed in the Australian Age Team from 1996 until 2001 and was named Australian Junior Trampoline Athlete of the Year in 2001 and also made the Australian squad. Ben has competed internationally for Australia since 2002, recently winning a silver medal at the World Championships and Gold at the World Cup. Ben has now qualified for the Beijing Olympics.
Alex Emmins, 18 of Murray Bridge was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer at 4 years of age and given only a 5% chance to live. Having fought the toughest battle of life, Alex now uses her fighting spirit to help save the environment and the River Murray. Alex volunteers her spare time to a number of environmental organisations including as past Chairperson of the River Murray Youth Council, as the youngest member of the Local Action Planning Committee, Fauna Care and Release and the Youth Advisory Committee. Alex is passionate about educating and inspiring others to care for the environment and is a mentor for young people always leading by example.
Katherine Lang, 26 of Royston Park was the only female graduate in 2004 to achieve a Degree in Construction Management and Economics and has quickly developed as a leader in the construction industry. Since 2005 Katherine has been Project Manager with the Department for Environment and Heritage managing building, civil engineering and landscape projects. She is President, ex-officio National Director, Council Member and a founding member of the SA Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction and is also a Council Member of the SA Chapter of the Australian Institute of Building. Katherine is a role model, ambassador and advocate for young women in the Construction industry.
Kate Selway, 26 of Adelaide is a post doctoral research associate having being awarded her PhD in July 2007. Her focus was on the use of an earth imaging geophysical technique called magnetotellurics to investigate the structure of the earth in central and southern Australia. Kate is currently working on a collaborative project between the University of Adelaide, BHP Billiton and Teck Cominco to determine the geological structure around the Olympic Dam area through 3D images of the subsurface. She hopes this research will not only develop Australia’s mineral potential, but also help us to understand the Earth’s complex history. Kate has made numerous international presentations and has been published in international journals.
Heidi Crick, 23 of Burra is the Youth Advisory Coordinator as well as State Regional Coordinator for the Youth Affairs Council Steering Committee. She is dedicated to the community and self motivated and is President of the Burra Basketball Association and the BBH Social Club, Secretary of the Netball Club, Young Rural Ambassador for the Show Society and is a member of numerous other organisations. Heidi has won many awards including being named the Young Citizen of the Year for the District Council of Goyder for her community commitment and involvement. Heidi is currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce and also for a Diploma in Youth Work. She does all of this whilst dealing with Chronic Fatigue.
Jessica Parker, 17 of Parafield Gardens is a ward of the State and has been brought up in foster care. She recently completed SACE studies at Parafield Gardens High School and is a keen basketballer and a wonderful role model. Jessica has won many awards including the 2007 Caltex Best Allrounder and 2007 SA Multicultural Youth Award. She is an ambassador for Multicultural Youth of SA and is heavily involved with the Office for Children and Youth in Care Program as a trainer and mentor helping young people in foster care. Jessica is also involved with the Youth Affairs Council of SA as an advocate for young people and is a volunteer for Red Cross. Jessica now hopes to study law at University.
Joel Taggart, 24 of Salisbury has always been a leader. He was named 2003 Young Citizen of the Year for the City of Salisbury and graduated from the Mayor’s Community Leadership program in 2005. He is Chairperson and was instrumental in establishing the Salisbury Community Road Safety Group and was also the inaugural Chairperson for the Salisbury Transport Advisory Group. He attended the United Nations World Youth Assembly on Road Safety in Geneva in 2007 and has been appointed as a United Nations Youth Ambassador for Road Safety and is Chair of the State Government Youth Safety Taskforce. Joel also coordinates a Wetland Care Group and beautification projects for the area.
Kyra Glasbym,23 of Wayville volunteered in one of Mother Teresa’s orphanages in Calcutta at only 14. Later she worked in Ethiopia with the “Afar” people and was disturbed by their immense suffering. She returned to Australia to complete her nursing degree, and has since travelled back to the Afar people three times, initiating many projects including building a small health clinic. Kyra has been instrumental in establishing Barefoot Initiatives an organisation that raises funds for Ethiopian projects including a pipeline, water filtration and a solar panel for the clinic.
Lee Salvemini, 21 of Hallett Cove contracted a rare disease at age 5 which paralysed his body from the neck down. After a miraculous cure, he walked out of hospital on Christmas Eve 1991. At age 10 Lee was awarded a music scholarship, but at 15 contracted Chronic Fatigue and could not physically play the piano. Teaching himself how to make animated games and movies he began winning animation competitions. Lee is now an outstanding 3D animation artist who in 2005 spent 7 months in Amsterdam as a lead Artist in a core group of six people developing the World’s first Open Source animated movie titled “Elephants Dream”.
Matthew Cowdrey, 18 of Salisbury Heights is an outstanding athlete who has achieved at the highest level including the Paralympics and Commonwealth Games and is an inspiration to aspiring athletes with a disability and a role model to all. In his disability ranking Matthew currently holds 13 world records, winning 2 Paralympic gold medals, 1 silver and 2 bronze in Athens and was named Paralympic junior male athlete of the year. He was the only male athlete to win individual Gold for Australia at the Commonwealth Games in 2006 winning the EAD 50 and 100 metre freestyle events, both in world record times.
Tammy Jo-Sutton, 26 of Bellevue Heights has been an environmental activist since completing school in 1998 joining Greenpeace Australia as a frontline events team leader and volunteer. Since 2003 she has been employed as the Community Campaigner for The Wilderness Society and was recently appointed the national convenor for the TWS community campaigner’s forum. She is a volunteer of the Flinders Uni Enviro Action Group and involved in the national environment student movement and assisted in creating the 11th annual Students of Sustainability Conference in Adelaide.
Christine Stock, 24 of Seacombe Gardens is a dedicated Mechanical Engineering tradesperson who has achieved outstanding success as a result of her positive attitude, motivation and ability to adapt to all situations. Christine is currently an Applications Engineer for Imaginit Technologies and also a CAD lecturer at TAFE. Christine won the 2005 National Apprentice of the Year and also the Worldskills Gold Medal Cad Mechanical Competition. Christine has recently been offered an overseas scholarship by the Australian Overseas Foundation to work in the organisation and country of her choice.
Sarah Crook, 24 of Glen Osmond is undertaking a PhD in Aerospace Engineering and is currently researching Aeroacoustics of Aircraft with a focus on understanding and reducing the intense noise and vibration produced in the instrument cavities of high speed aircraft. She hopes this research will increase the longevity and safety of aircraft structures. Sarah also has a burning ambition to become an astronaut and is a driving force member of the organising committee for the Space Generation Congress and was coordinator and moderator of the Moon to Mars workshops for the 2005 congress in Japan and Valencia in 2006.
Kelly Bickle, 26 of Balaklava is a volunteer, fundraiser and a leader for many community organisations. She is passionate about the Arts and has been President of Balaklava Community Arts Incorporated since 2002, performing regularly in musicals and dramas and has also become an admired and talented director. Kelly is involved in just about everything including a number of sports, events and community programs. In 2006 Kelly was elected to the Wakefield Regional Council as Central Ward Councillor and works for Horizon Christian School.
Christopher Wilson, 24 of Christie Downs has a Bachelor of Archaeology with First Class Honours and is currently undertaking his PhD. Chris was the Academic Advisor/Associate Lecturer at the Yunggorendi First Nations Centre at Flinders University providing academic support for Indigenous students. He has presented Indigenous Archaeology conference papers around the world including in Calgary, Washington DC and Auckland and also at many youth events, Aboriginal Councils, clubs and forums. Chris is involved with indigenous issues through the National Indigenous Youth Leadership Group.
James Smith, 26 of Kilburn is currently undertaking a PhD in Public Health and is a passionate leader in Men’s Health. He was instrumental in launching the Prostrate Cancer Foundation and is involved at state and national level with the Australian Health Promotion Association, voted SA President in 2006. James is chair of the planning committees for SA to host the National Conference this May and also for the SA Men’s Health conferences. James has published papers and presented at numerous conferences around Australia and overseas and was named the 2006 Young Australian of the Year for South Australia.
Emma Hutchinson, 26 of Netherby is a wonderful role model creatively using her skills and sharing her compassion and time for the benefit of those less fortunate. Emma has twice worked as a volunteer Occupational Therapist in Romania, a third world health system spending 4 months away on each trip. On her second visit, Emma took four, fourth year OT students from the University of SA with her to assist and gain experience under her guidance, along with donated medical supplies. Emma wrote fact sheets for patients and training program for Doctors and has written papers and made presentations on her experiences. Emma is also actively involved in many youth initiatives here in Adelaide.
Daniel Daw, 22 of Parkside is the recipient of the 2005 SA Youth Arts Board Dame Ruby Litchfield Scholarship and Russell Page Fellowship in Contemporary Dance. Daniel is the only integrated dancer with a physical disability in South Australia. Since his graduation from Flinders University with a Bachelor of Creative Arts in Drama Performance, Daniel has danced and tutored with “Restless Dance” and recently in collaboration with the Australian Dance Theatre. This year Daniel is one of only 12 international students to be invited to study the Foundation Course at the Cando Dance Company in the UK.
Alexis Rhodes, 21 of Kersbrook won the 2002 World Junior Track Championship followed by the World Junior Road Championships later being named the Female Junior Track cyclist of the Year. Alexis finished 2nd in the 2005 World Cup 20km Points race in Los Angeles and 3rd in Manchester before being seriously injured in an accident in Germany and is lucky to be alive. Alexis is a role model to every Australian overcoming significant adversity and has performed beyond her own expectations to come back in such a short period of time. Alexis qualified for and recently represented Australia in the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Katherine Daniell, 24 of Tusmore is passionate about protecting the environment and our water resources. She is a University of Adelaide Medalist in Engineering and Arts, specialising in water and environmental engineering and is now undertaking her PhD in Australia and France. Katherine is working on new methods of sustainability assessment for urban areas and has gained national and international recognition, prizes and awards for her research. She won the General Sir John Monash Award, Australia’s most prestigious post graduate scholarship for her tireless efforts to promote sustainable development through publications and presentations around Australia and Europe.
Leonard Teo, 26 of Bellevue Heights is Managing Director and co-founder of Ballistic Media and is a respected and influential visionary in the global digital arts industry with over 1.7 million creative professionals and students reading his company’s publications. Ballistic Media employs seventeen staff with offices in Adelaide, Melbourne, San Francisco and Tampa Florida. Ballistic Media has won an SA Great Award for Best Export with more than 90% of its income coming from export business. Ballistic Publishing is the leading award winning independent publisher of digital art books world wide.
Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri, of Para Hills West completed a Bachelor of Science Degree with First Class Honours and is currently undertaking her PhD at the University of Adelaide, investigating the growth and function of the placenta that feeds a growing baby. There are no treatments currently for failed placental development. Amanda’s recent work in guinea pigs has shown that treating of pregnant mothers with a hormone can stimulate placental function and fetal growth laying the foundation for future therapeutics and tests. Amanda’s ground breaking work has received many prestigious international awards and publications, conference papers with invitations to speak about her research around the world.
Simone Burdon, 26 of Millicent spurred on by excellent academic results, embarked upon her own graphic design and multi media business “E-Media” at just 19. She now has over 100 regular clients and is recognised as an industry leader in her region. A contemporary style, up to date knowledge, professionalism and a genuine passion for her work has resulted in many awards, substantial contracts and international accolades. Simone inspires other regional young people through regular public speaking engagements, as secretary of the local Youth Crime Prevention Program and the Noorla Yolong educational facility.
Walter Jackson, 23 of Murray Bridge has wonderful leadership and role-model qualities. Employed as a youth worker at the lower Murray Nungas Club, Walter coordinates and facilitates programs specifically for young Aboriginals. Walter is also a second year player coach of A grade football at the Callington Football Club and manages and performs in his own Ngarrindjeri dance group called Ngaipon Korni\’s consisting of nine men, performing to educate and encourage participation in Aboriginal culture. Walter has a passion to encourage other young Aboriginal people to utilise cultural knowledge as an avenue for inspiration.
Jessica Collins-Roe, 20 of Crystal Brook is Chairperson of the Better Living Group, a part of the Rocky River Health Service and a leader, motivator and an inspiration. Jessica is involved with numerous government and non government organisations and agencies and has developed the “Flying Solo” program offering early intervention and prevention for young people who have had life changing experiences. The program focuses on teaching life skills including, home, financial and employment seeking skills. Jessica has won many awards for her community contribution including the 2005 Crystal Brook Young Citizen of the Year Award.
Patrick Lim, 25 of Happy Valley is an Honours graduate from the Elder Conservatorium and has performed in cabaret, musical theatre, dance and opera with many of Australia’s major performing arts companies and festivals. “Amazing vocals, great fun” and “totally charming and entertaining” is what the New York press said about Patrick Lim’s performances at New York’s top cabaret venues last year. Patrick is currently Artistic Director of the State Opera’s Young Artist Opera Studio and Schools Company and Arts in Health program. Patrick’s next international engagement is the offer of a secondment with the prestigious English National Opera.
Matthew Cowdrey, 16 of Salisbury Heights was born with a congenital amputation of his left arm just below the elbow. In March 2004 at the Paralympic Games trials Matthew won 5 Gold, 2 Silver and 2 Bronze medals from his 9 events. In August at the State Short Course Championships he broke 7 World Short Course Records, 13 Australian Records and won 6 State Championship Medals swimming in the 14-15 years able bodied events. At the 2004 Paralympic Games Matthew won 2 Bronze, 2 Silver and 3 Gold Medals with 2 World and Paralympic Record times. On Australia Day Matthew was awarded “The Order of Australia Medal” for Service to Sport as a Gold Medallist in Athens.
Heidi Bartram, 22 of Kingscote has always demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the Environment, especially the Ocean. After graduating from Flinders University as a Marine Biologist, Heidi worked with the Vanuatu Department of Fisheries as an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development. She was instrumental in having the extractive Aquarium Fish Trade temporarily banned on the main island of Efate - a first for the vulnerable Pacific region - and she is currently developing an Aquarium Trade Awareness Campaign. Heidi now works as the Coastcare Facilitator for the Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Board, educating and engaging all stakeholders in sustainable management of the coastal, estuarine and marine environment.
Chad Hetherington, 24 of Adelaide in 2000 became the youngest film/TV tertiary teacher in Australia working at the International Film School. In 2003 he partnered with Imagination Studios to form TVC Works, a local production facility. In 2004 Chad started Logic Films and within 6 weeks secured a major pay TV production deal, a major international client and an office in Taiwan. The Sydney office opened in January 2005. There are now 17 full time staff at Logic Films globally. Chad is also an active member on many committees and supports Wesley Uniting Care and the Adelaide Central Mission.
Beverly Muhlhausler, 25 of Myrtle Bank completed her undergraduate degree with first class honours and is currently in the third year of her PhD at the University of Adelaide. Beverly is focused on understanding the mechanisms by which exposure to increased nutrient supply before birth, such as occurs in infants of mothers who have diabetes, leads to an increased risk of obesity in child and adult life. Beverly has made a significant contribution to this field and has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has published in many high impact factor scientific journals, contributing to two reviews of this area. Beverly has twice been awarded the Postgraduate All-Rounder Award at the University and is also an active participant in the Australian Society for Medical Research, University teaching programs and other community outreach activities.
Melanie Bell, 23 of Victor Harbor has an Advanced Diploma of Tourism and at only 19 began her own travel agency business, specialising in the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island regions. She has grown the booking centre into a prosperous and reputable business employing 6 local staff and has been awarded 3 consecutive prestigious tourism awards. Melanie is also very committed to the local Victor Harbor community in sport, many community groups and her local church youth group. Melanie also financially supports two orphanages in India and two ex staff members with their unpaid youth work.
Kiara Rahman, 26 of Oakden has a Bachelor of Arts degree, Teaching degree, Masters degree and is set to complete her doctorate in Indigenous Education this year. Kiara’s current research has an important focus on improving educational outcomes for Indigenous students. Kiara is determined to make educational and social improvements for Indigenous people. In 2004, Kiara was awarded a Trevor Prescott Memorial Scholarship and became a state finalist for the ‘Young Australian of the Year Award’. Kiara is currently working as an Aboriginal Education Teacher/Coordinator, whilst finishing her university studies.
Carmen Garcia, 24 is an extraordinary young person whose tireless volunteering in the community has benefited many people, especially young people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Carmen has always been involved in helping others, particularly those of Filipino background. She has received numerous awards for her contribution to the community including a 2002 Young Citizen of the Year Award by Port Adelaide Enfield Council. Carmen is involved with many committees including the Filipino Advisory Committee, the Filipino Network of SA and is Co-Chair and Filipino Youth Leader for Multicultural Youth SA. Carmen has organised many events and has spoken at numerous conferences and forums about her community work.
Aleksandr Tsiboulski, 24 is one of the most gifted guitarists to have graduated from the Canberra school of music receiving 1 st class honours. Aleksandr has won numerous awards including the Adelaide and Australian Spring Guitar Competitions and the City of Sydney Performing Arts Challenge. In 2002 Aleksandr received a grant to study in Europe and later received another grant to record a debut solo album. Aleksandr has performed across Australia, England, Canada, the United States and the Ukraine. To further his career Aleksandr plans to undertake a residency at the prestigious Banff Centre in Paris.
Grant Schubert, 23 began playing hockey for the Loxton U'11's. It has been a tough but wonderful road to success since then. In a rapid rise to fame Grant has progressed from Co-Captain of the State team at 22 years of age, to playing in the Australia A team in a 3 Nations Tournament in 2003. Grant scored 9 goals in 8 matches including a hat trick against the Australian Kookaburras. Grant was promoted to play 2 tests for Australia against Germany in the lead up to the Champions Trophy held in the Netherlands. Grant scored 9 goals in 6 games and was named Most Promising Player for the Tournament. With 11 International caps under his belt and 10 goals in his first year, Grant was named the International Hockey Federation's World Men's Young Player of the Year in 2003. Grant has successfully qualified as a member of the Australian Kookaburras for the 2004 Olympics. We wish Grant every success in Athens.
Amy Beal, 19 is currently studying for a Bachelor of Environmental Management at Flinders University. Amy has been keenly involved in environmental issues such as hand rearing possums, tree planting on Kangaroo Island for the Glossy Black Cockatoo, planting 3000 trees in the Adelaide Hills around local streams and weeding in Waite Conservation Park. Amy has been a mentor for many students about environmental issues and is passionate about educating the public concerning the plight of the River Murray. Amy does this ardently through speaking at community group meetings, conferences and forums and is currently planning a major educational conference for Primary School students.
Abby Edwards, 26 was a straight A student at Scotch College winning every possible award available. Abby received first class honours in Digital Communication after averaging Distinctions in her double degree in Broadcast Journalism and Media Production at Charles University. Abby has worked for ABC radio and the Australian Democrats but is now Director of 3 companies. Brave New Media has been operating for 3 years in multi media, graphic design, communications and advertising. Onya Soapbox is 2 years old and is a talent and personality management group. Championedge.com commences mid 2004 as an online coaching portal and sports store. Abby has other companies ready to be launched in the future and still manages to dedicate many hours fundraising for charities, in particular UNICEF.
Dr Erin Symonds, 26 has a Bachelor of Science at the University of Adelaide attaining First Class Honours in Physiology in 1998. In December 1997, Erin joined the Gastroenterology Unit at the Womens and Childrens Hospital as a summer scholarship student and has been there ever since. In 2003, Erin became a Doctor of Philosophy and Physiology. Her work in gastroenterology with a specific interest in breath tests to assess gastrointestinal health and function is of significant importance. Erin has developed these tests so that individuals can be tested in a perfectly safe manner. These breath tests also have relevance in studies of cystic fibrosis and irritable bowel syndrome. Erin has won numerous awards including the Centenary Medal and has published her findings nationally and internationally as well as being a regular guest speaker on the world circuit.
Matthew Clayfield, 18 is fast gaining a reputation as a filmmaker, writer, actor and public speaker. In 2001 he wrote, directed and starred in a documentary called •Smashed' about teenage binge drinking. In 2002 he wrote, directed and starred in a production called •Big Issue' on the issue of mental health. He was the consecutive winner of the Rostrum Voice of Youth Public Speaking Award and in 2002 received the Mt Gambier Young Citizen Award. His short film •Mystery of Clayfield Hall' won best overall film at the Crank Film Festival in 2001. He has his own web-site and is working with a Canadian peer to write and produce a film called •Oblivion' whilst also working on a film entitled •Cow Hunter of the South Seas'.