Youth Recognition Awards 2026
Annually the Onkaparinga Youth Committee assist in delivering the Youth Recognition Awards - where young people aged 8 to 25 are recognised, celebrated and honoured for their outstanding actions in improving their communities, self and securing their futures.
Nominations are now closed.
Categories
- Learning Success: A category for young people who have achieved significant academic success whether it be ‘getting the grade’, mentoring other young people to do so or showcased excellence in learning new skills.
- Personal Achievement: This category shines a light on those who have overcome adversity and shown resilience through personal hardship to overcome the many challenges life can throw at young people.
- Contribution to Community: An award that acknowledges the young people who give extra time back to community groups, schools and other programs that benefit the people of Onkaparinga.
- Business, Employment & Social Enterprise: An award to recognise young people who have turned their ideas into business and social enterprise as well as acknowledging those young people who have worked hard to secure employment. This one is for the hard workers, innovative thinkers and change makers!
- Neporendi Deadly Achievers Award: In collaboration with Neporendi Forum Inc. This award celebrates an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander young person 8 to 25yrs living in the City of Onkaparinga who is making an impact through their contribution to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Culture, Community, or Country. This deadly achiever uplifts their community and is recognised for keeping culture strong and inspired.
- Onkaparinga Youth Worker of the Year: To be eligible for this award the nominated person can be of any age but must work with young people from the Onkaparinga area. Workers include but are not limited to: Police, Child Protection, Health, Education, Youth Work and Youth Services including those working with young people in the sports and recreation and arts and cultural sector. You do not have to be a ‘youth worker’ per say to be nominated in this category!
2025 Award winners
Please see some information on your 2025 Youth Recognition Award winners below:
Learning Success – Winner – Archer Christmas
Archie has worked tirelessly to establish his own soccer coaching business, developing the processes needed for success. He has excelled in both business development and his coaching skills. Archie currently coaches for the Roger Rasheed Sports Foundation Inclusive Soccer program, where his support and guidance have been highly praised by participants and parents alike. His passion for learning and mentoring others makes him a standout young leader.
Personal Achievement – Winner – Jack Harrison
In 2021 Jack’s future was uncertain. His father had passed away and mum was struggling with 5 kids. School was challenging, he was going down the wrong path. In 2022 he moved to Adelaide and being in a safe and supportive environment allowed him to find his passion and explore opportunities. At Teen Parliament, his powerful speech on child protection sparked an outpouring of hope, inspiring conversations and earning him a $10,000 scholarship.
Contributions to the Community – Winner – Wade Silk
Wade is actively involved in the school community through his role as house leader, coffee cart volunteer, International Ambassador & buddy for the student exchange program, peer support leader, & member of the school band. He recently won a scholarship to Japan for a study tour. Wade volunteers at the Reynella Neighbourhood Centre helping support programs & markets. He is also a Youth Ambassador for the Art Gallery of SA's Neo program where he volunteers to plan & support youth events.
Business, Employment and Social Enterprise – Dual Winners – Ava Jones & Tanaya Anthony
Ava Jones, at just 11 years old, has successfully created her own clothing brand, showcasing her passion for fashion and entrepreneurship. Through her strong social media presence on Instagram, she has built a loyal following and generated online sales, establishing a brand that reflects her creativity and dedication. Her achievement shows remarkable business acumen at a young age, inspiring other young entrepreneurs.
Less than a year ago, ‘Naysart’ was just an idea, and Tanaya, a proud Narungga artist, was selling their art for the first time at the Closing the Gap event in March 2024. Now, they’ve built a thriving business, recently collaborating with Sportsgirl and headspace to design a tote bag featuring Proud Love, celebrating love in the queer, POC community. Tanaya has showcased their work in SALA and secured public art commissions.
Neporendi Deadly Achievers Award – Winner – Marley Ware
Marley is an ex Woodcroft Primary student and is returning as an Aboriginal artist to work with current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to create a mural for the school. With extensive connection to culture and family, Marley has a wealth of knowledge to share with current students and a love of art to inspire younger artists. Marley is working with the ACEO, staff and students to raise cultural awareness and pride within the school, leaving a lasting piece of art for all students to enjoy.
Onkaparinga Youth Worker of the Year – Winner – Barb Bayly
Barb has worked with kids and young people for over 20 years serving in both employee and volunteer roles. She has tirelessly dedicated her life to see youth learn through teaching, listening and being genuine in her care for them. She has worked across school disability units and served over a thousand kids in this time including serving at youth group on Friday nights and working in a Sunday school program. She gives up her weekend to see kids have better community and grow as human beings into better people.
Onkaparinga Youth Committee (OYC)
The OYC is the organising body for the Youth Recognition Awards and consists of young people aged 12-25 years who are passionate about playing an active role in their community. The awards were developed by the OYC as a way of celebrating the valuable contributions young people make to our community.
For more information about the OYC.
If you would like to be a part of the Onkaparinga Youth Committee you can keep an eye on our website for when applications are open.
If you would like more information about the Youth Recognition Awards or the OYC please contact Jolyn Phillipps, Community Development Youth Coordinator at youth@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au