We live in a world that constantly tests our strength. At times, the path forward can be uncertain and filled with obstacles. It is during these moments that courage matters most.

Cafe Verde chose to sponsor The Courage Under Fire Award because it recognises those who continue to show up, even when circumstances are challenging, those who persist when the easier choice may be to give up and those who continue moving forward with courage, determination and belief in themselves.

Aiden Slater
Over the past 18 months, Aiden has shown remarkable personal growth and resilience. Despite significant challenges outside of school and initially not enjoying his subjects, he wanted to achieve finishing school and worked extremely hard to achieve this.  He has improved his grades from mostly Ds and Es to Bs and Cs.  He registered himself for Operation Flinders, which was well out of his comfort zone and when he returned declared himself a new person. Now Aiden is writing and completing assignments on his own and even writing poetry for enjoyment.

Kobe Green
Kobe saved the lives of two children in Berry Bay who would have drowned without his assistance. Kobe was out surfing and noticed the two children, who were caught in a rip near the surf break after going bodysurfing. Kobe noticed their distress and paddled over despite the danger he was in as well. The younger child was close to drowning as Kobe got them both onto his surfboard and managed to get them out of the rip, back to safety.

Milliana Nichol
Milli is a young neurodiverse athlete who has overcome significant challenges during high school. In 2026 Milli started in the Banksia International High Flo Program and now works 1 day per week as a junior gymnastic coach. She has shone in her chosen sport of Gymnastics but more than that she is back in education part time, has started a coaching career and works hard to achieve the best possible outcome.

Nico Atkins
Having faced significant mental health challenges as a young person, he has transformed his lived experience into hope for others. What began as a university placement with Talk Out Loud Australia has grown into a leadership role as THRIVE Youth Manager, where he mentors young people, supports volunteers and placement students, and leads at youth empowerment camps.  Nico also shared his story during the Adelaide Fringe in the production Check In, Not Out. He has helped to inspire hope and remind others that they are never alone.

Sienna Ross
Sienna faced significant challenges with severe anxiety and periods of hospitalisation due to her mental health struggles however she used these experiences to support others, instead of letting it stop her. She mentors Year 7 students who were experiencing severe anxiety, absenteeism and even self harming behaviour in some severe cases. Thanks to her help, these students have shown significant improvement.

Tanna Saunders
Tanna consistently demonstrates courage, resilience, and determination while navigating the daily challenges associated with cerebral palsy. Throughout her life, she has faced obstacles that require significant perseverance, adaptability, and strength, yet she approaches these challenges with a positive attitude and unwavering focus on her goals. She demonstrates that courage is not about avoiding difficulties but about facing them with strength, optimism, and determination.

At My Local Physio Plus, we believe in recognising the people who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in our community. The Everyday Hero Award celebrates those who may not always seek recognition but consistently show kindness, support and dedication to others.

Sponsoring this award aligns perfectly with our commitment to Helping Our Community Live Better and celebrating the everyday people who help make our community a stronger place.

Aeman Hamzah
Aemen demonstrates many of the qualities expected of an Everyday Hero. Aemen consistently shows compassion by supporting others with kindness, empathy, and respect, ensuring people feel valued and included. Their commitment to helping the community is evident through the time and effort they dedicate to assisting those in need. They inspire positive change through their actions.

Asreet Kour
Kindness means a lot to Asreet, it’s something they try to offer daily and respect a lot. Asreet offers genuine compliments, actively listens and respects opinions, and checks in regularly with loved ones. They make sure everyone is doing well because it also makes them feel satisfied and content.

Grace Castles
Grace provides guidance, encouragement, and support to younger students at Kildare College.  As a Peer Support Leader, mentor and Advocacy Captain she helps them develop confidence and a sense of belonging.  Grace has also represented Kildare College at the RAA Round Table Discussion, contributing thoughtful insights on eScooter safety and regional road conditions.

Beyond the College, Grace mentors younger members through her leadership roles with St John Ambulance, teaching valuable first aid and life skills.  She is an active member of both the First Aid Team and Drill Team and currently holds the rank of Corporal and Drill Team Commander.

Grace regularly steps forward to help others without seeking recognition. She leads with kindness, integrity, and compassion, consistently putting the needs of others before her own.

Melanie Filmer
Melanie is a volunteer Youth Leader, Kids Church Leader and Youth Band Vocalist at Clovercrest Baptist Church.  She has experienced and understands how challenging it is to discover who you are and where you belong in today's world. Melanie consistently walks alongside children and young people in her care, and supports and encourages them in their everyday situations, such as family, school, friendships and general wellbeing. Her ability to connect with children and young people, including those with additional needs, is a testament to her kindness and empathy.  Melanie’s many small, meaningful actions contribute to positive outcomes for those she serves.

Phoebe Connolly
Phoebe consistently shows kindness, care, and support within the classroom. She goes out of her way to help her classmates, offers guidance when someone is struggling, and providing a listening ear when peers need someone to talk to, making life easier for others.

She is always engaged in learning and contributes positively to the classroom environment. She steps up to help even when not asked or recognised, often volunteering for classroom jobs and taking initiative to support the smooth running of the classroom without needing prompting.

Her willingness to support others, and having a positive attitude, makes a meaningful difference to the wellbeing and confidence of those around her.

Benefitness & Health Centre sponsors the City of Tea Tree Gully's Youth Achievement Awards to actively support, recognise, and invest in the outstanding contributions of local young people in our community.

Anabelle Larkin
Anabelle is a kind, respectful, and dedicated student who consistently shows kindness and respect to those around her. She demonstrates leadership by setting a positive example for her peers and encouraging others to do their best. Her reliability, compassion, and commitment to helping others make her a valued member of Kildare College.

Brianna Shaw
Brianna has been volunteering her time as a helper for Greenwith Girl Guides for several years before becoming a qualified unit leader this year, stepping into her role with maturity, kindness and dedication. She goes above and beyond expectations creating a supportive and inclusive environment. She celebrates each girl with care and builds their confidence. Brianna has been a reliable force during changing times, organising volunteers, meetings, and other administrative tasks behind the scenes. She is committed to quality through her work and has ensured a high quality guiding program, praised by both youth members and fellow volunteers. Brianna’s willingness to take on additional responsibility while balancing work and study has demonstrated her dedication, initiative and leadership that has given her a powerful impact on Greenwith Guides.

Caitlin Milanowski
Caitlin is a compassionate lead mentor at youth empowerment camps with Talk Out Loud. She confidently demonstrates leadership and dedication as well, providing outstanding support to young people while volunteering with professionalism, empathy and confidence. Caitlin consistently exceeds expectations by participating in this volunteering well beyond her rostered hours. She leads by example, always putting the wellbeing of others first and inspiring those around her through her authenticity, reliability and kindness. Whether supporting youth through a difficult conversation or encouraging them to believe in themselves, Caitlin’s impact is lasting!

Cassandra Hoare
Cassandra is a dedicated high performance trampoline coach to a group of passionate young athletes between the ages of 10 and 16. She mentors her students including those with additional needs to progress and face hurdles, helping them to overcome challenges and teaching them more than just gymnastics. Cassandra also helps keep things working smoothly and organised through administrative efforts. She leads her students to be passionate and support each other, giving them tools to be happy and truly thrive.

Della McCracken
Della is a hardworking, kind and thoughtful individual in the community. As a Middle School Captain and Australian Football junior umpire, she demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and a strong commitment to helping others. She is a mentor and leader in the community and is constantly promoting positivity and optimism in her everyday life.

Gurreet Kaur
Gurreet demonstrates kindness by using a gentle voice, sharing without being asked, and helping others. She believes that real success comes from helping and supporting others, rather than simply achieving first, second, or third place or winning medals. She recently demonstrated exceptional kindness and sportsmanship by giving up a medal-winning position in a 5 km marathon to encourage and support another runner.

Montanah Wilson
Montanah spends a lot of time focusing on her duties at Talk Out Loud Australia and contributes to supporting those in need of mental health support. She is currently in year 12 at Marden Senior College and is on the path to becoming a mental health advocate and support worker. She has a passion for helping others grow and understand their thoughts and feelings.

Solomia Onyskiv
Solomia consistently goes above and beyond to support others and make a positive difference within the Kildare College community. She encourages others to do their best by offering guidance, building confidence, and helping younger students feel welcomed and supported. Whether assisting new students as a Big Sister or volunteering her time to teach dance routines, Solomia leads with patience, kindness, and encouragement.

The Grove Shopping Centre is proud to sponsor the Young Entrepreneur Awards to recognise and celebrate emerging leaders who demonstrate commitment and initiative, strong problem solving, meaningful impact on customers and the community, and clear personal growth.

Archer Woodman and Max Tompkins
Max and Archer have successfully created and developed their small business, Wag & Whisk, a homemade organic dog food business. They showed strong commitment and effort by designing their own packaging and labels, developing their brand identity, and actively producing and selling their product, resulting in $50 in sales. Their business has given them real-world entrepreneurial experience and supported their personal growth, while also showing potential to expand further in the future.

Huon Gifford
Huon has created his own car detailing business. He has built his business through self motivation and initiative. He travels all across Adelaide and beyond for customers, including jobs in Tea Tree Gully, Tailem Bend and Lonsdale, to make the service as convenient as possible for customers and to continue growing the business.  He is completely transparent with his customers, offers extra services where required and always communicates first.  Huon has obtained fantastic reviews for his work including his workmanship, attention to detail and friendly service.  Huon is very committed to building his business through determination, professionalism and fantastic customer service.

Mia Todd
Mia who is a passionate artist has turned her passion for art into a successful small business. In 2023, she established Mia Todd Arts to sell her original artwork, and in 2026 expanded her reach by launching an Etsy store and regularly exhibiting at community events including ComiCon, Adelaide Artcade, Tea Tree Gully Winter Warmers, Walkerville Christmas Fair, and numerous other local markets.  Mia's business has grown through her commitment, hard work and willingness to learn. What began as a creative passion has evolved into a thriving enterprise, with Mia developing valuable skills in marketing, customer engagement, financial management and business operations. She has shown remarkable initiative in promoting her work, building a customer base and managing both the artistic and commercial aspects of her business.

Ruby Maxwell
Ruby has taken her own initiative, creativity and dedication in establishing and grow her own cookie business while still attending high school. Ruby assists with setting up Kindergym equipment each week and recognised an opportunity to develop a range of cookies to sell in the Gymnastics Club café. Ruby developed a range of beautifully decorated cookies that align with the weekly themes of the Kindergym program. Her ability to create products that appeal to young families has been a tremendous success, with demand consistently increasing, with initial orders of 50 cookies per week quickly growing to 100 cookies per week due to strong customer support and repeat purchases. Ruby’s professionalism, reliability and commitment are evident through her regular deliveries and high-quality products. She is an inspiring example of a young person turning a passion into a successful business.

Suma Mohammadi
Suma runs her own candle business. She works for her business while balancing her school work, netball, and volleyball. She is successfully running a business and earning money from it while balancing her extracurricular activities.

Zak Stomski
Zac has found a passion in woodworking that he is determined to follow into a successful career. By attending markets, applying for stall opportunities, promoting his products, and building a social media presence, he has developed valuable entrepreneurial skills and a strong understanding of small business operations.

The Lions Club of Golden Grove is proud to support the City of Tea Tree Gully’s Youth Achievement Awards.  We are particularly please to be able to sponsor the Giving Back Award as it aligns with the Lions International Motto – “We Serve”.

Alessia Russo
Alessia has a strong sense of justice and passion for making a positive difference in her community. Alessia has contributed to the Anti-Bullying Rapid review, where her submission was featured in a news article, served as a Social Justice Leader, cooked meals for Fred’s Van, and led a period poverty donation drive supporting Catherine House. She has also volunteered as a mentor to younger students, participated in a social justice camp in Melbourne, advocates for those suffering from bullying, and is currently serving as a Tea Tree Gully Youth Leader. Through her leadership, compassion, and dedication to service, she consistently works to support others and create meaningful change.

Cohen Djorem
Cohen has given back to the wider community by being involved in the Push for Better Foundation’s Student Ambassador Program. He is also part of the Gleeson College Ecological group, helping teach the next generation about a more sustainable future and has volunteered his time by cleaning up public spaces in Tea Tree Gully to bring about awareness of single use plastics.

Dannika Polacchi
Dannika demonstrates outstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community involvement. Through her roles in Living Justice Living Peace, as a Peer Support Leader, Mentor, and College Tour Guide, she generously gives her time and skills to help others feel welcomed, supported, and included. Dannika has made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the wellbeing and culture of the Kildare College community.

Hayden Peterson & Jake Forrest
Hayden & Jake are a great asset to the Golden Grove Football Club. They give their time before and after training, cleaning up, restocking the canteen, sorting the equipment sheds and numerous other tasks without being asked and without reward. This volunteering inspires others to help and creates a great sense of community.

Lara Woolford
Lara Woolford for her outstanding commitment to both her community and the environment. Her dedication to make a real difference can be seen in her work in beach clean-ups, tree planting initiatives, conservation of an endangered plant species. Her efforts have helped protect marine life, improve biodiversity, and create greener, more sustainable community spaces.  Lara has also contributed to important conservation work by helping propagate the endangered plant species ‘Cullen parvum’ and collecting seeds for South Australia’s state seed bank. In addition, she demonstrates a personal commitment to sustainability through recycling and environmentally responsible practices.

As a Living Justice Living Peace Captain at Kildare College, Lara extends her service to people in need through her involvement with Fred’s Van, the Adelaide Day Centre for Homeless Persons, and the College Sleepout. Through her leadership, service, and advocacy, Lara has made a meaningful impact on others and inspires those around her to contribute positively to their community.

Oliver Peck and Luke Hayter
Oliver Peck and Luke Hayter from Golden Grove High School have raised money for Xavier Pudovkin, who is from their football club Houghton Districts.  Xavier, who is suffering through his fourth replace of Neuroblastoma required complex treatment in America for the correct care.

Their initial aim was to fundraise $1,000 for Xavier and is family. After a successful fundraising event with live action from local businesses, hairspray or hair shaves, BBQ and half time races, their hard work ended up raising $9,500. All of this was planned in 10 days, reaching out to local businesses, Houghton Football club, Golden Grove High School, Peter Malinauskas and Channel 7 news.

The work Oliver and Luke undertook has been incredibly meaningful, not only in sharing Xavier's story with the wider community but also in helping educate others about the realities of long-term cancer treatment and relapse. Their efforts have contributed to increasing community awareness, compassion, and understanding of the significant emotional, physical, and financial impacts that childhood cancer places on families. The created a positive impact not only for Xavier and his family, but for the broader community.

Payton Richardson
Payton has volunteered at a charity called Food on the Table for the last five years, where he has contributed 2500 hours and has made over 10,000 meals for the less fortunate. He has also raised $2000 through fundraising efforts for the charity. He makes a difference in the community by volunteering his time to help the less fortunate.

Prabhjit Kaur
Prabhjit has volunteered her time at St Vincent de Paul Society. Through assisting customers, organising stock, and helping maintain the store, she played a role in raising funds that support people experiencing hardship. Prabhjit demonstrates fairness and inclusivity by treating customers, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and kindness.

Sia Clark
Sia is a caring and committed team member, coach and umpire at Strikers Netball Club who chooses to give back many hours to her club every day. She inspires others to participate not just as team members but as part of the club and community. Sia is a wonderful role model and leader with an endless passion and commitment that embodies the values of teamwork, respect and community service.

Datacom is proud to sponsor the Together We Can Award because we believe that meaningful achievements are built through collaboration, inclusion, and community support.

This award celebrates young people who demonstrate the power of working together to create positive outcomes for others.

Jessica Peckman and Katrina Cheng
Jessica and Katrina implemented World Environment Day at Pedare Christian College. They worked together as advocates, spreading awareness and educating the college, contributing to the College’s overall environmental understanding. Together, they were able to achieve positive outcomes, advancing education, advocacy, and fundraising for the charity.

Kildare Peer Support
Kildare College’s Peer Support Leaders who together, as 45 inspiring year 11’s, demonstrated the power of collaboration and shared leadership whilst supporting the year 7’s overall transition into secondary school. Recognizing that change can be scary, the peer support leaders helped foster a welcoming and inclusive environment. Whether it was facilitating relationship-building activities at camp, collectively hosting sessions centred on kindly resolving conflict or even reflecting on past experiences to create a sense of belonging, it was their teamwork that made the year 7s transition a positive success.

Tea Tree Gully Homeschool High School Group
Tea Tree Gully Homeschool High School Group have extraordinarily used their warm and compassionate empathy to raise awareness for those experiencing homelessness at Westcare Centre. As part of this collaborative initiative, this team of 14 high school students decided to give up the comfort some take for granted, by spending a chilly night sleeping outside in the city. Demonstrating positive problem solving, active listening and sincere encouragement, they helped fundraise money for the homeless. Whether planning a ‘paint and sip” evening or quiz nights of homemade goodies and giveaways, they accomplished an incredible $9,342.

Valley View Horticultural Team
Valley View’s Horticultural Team whose exceptional dedication, commitment and passion for their school’s to maintaining the Valley Garden throughout the year and meeting environmental challenges that comes with maintaining a community garden.

The Horticultural Team exemplifies environmental stewardship and commitment to sustainability. Through the growing of vegetables, maintaining healthy plants and flowers, the team also ensures the irrigation system is maintained efficiently. The outcome of these actions contributes directly to the school’s ecological footprint in a positive manner.

The Team plays a vital role in welcoming international students generously sharing their gardening experience with the school community and creating cross-cultural connections through discussion of environmental values in Australian culture.

Their ongoing fundraising efforts support local animal and human charities, further demonstrating their community-minded sprit and humanity.

The garden is a space that unites people, promotes sustainability, and fosters meaningful community connections, all made possible by the dedication, vision, and commitment of the Horticultural Team.

Tea Tree Players is proud to sponsor the Creative Community Award, recognising young people who use their creativity to inspire others and make a positive impact in our community. We celebrate those who share their creativity with the community through exhibitions, performances, workshops, or public spaces.

Amelia Kenney
Amelia is an accomplished dancer and Arts Captain. She demonstrates exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for the arts. She actively encourages and supports others in developing their creative abilities, including mentoring a Year 7 student through one-on-one dance coaching during her lunchtimes. Through her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to the arts, Amelia has inspired younger students and enriched the creative culture of Kildare College.

Chiara Greco
Chiara is a decorated performer and has achieved outstanding success across regional, national, and international competitions in song, dance, musical theatre, and entertainment. She supports others and willingly goes above and beyond for people around her for them to achieve their own personal goals. She is selfless and always put others first.

Lachlan Sullivan
Lachlan has an extensive music background, including completion of the Elder Conservatorium of Music’s Bachelor of Music Majoring in Jazz Performance (Advanced), and performing and recording music with a variety of instruments including; drums, guitar, bass guitar and double bass.

He has supported a range of musicians including; Nathan Cavaleri, Mahlalia Barnes, Frank Sultana and Nick Charles in recent tours and shows. He organised and created two successful Adelaide fringe shows and performed the music of The Velvet Underground with ‘I’ll be your mirror’.

His band ‘Rakali’ has released 2 songs on CD and streaming. His band ‘Amin and Lauchlan’ recently released their first EP music, and had success winning the Adelaide Roots and Blues Association 2026 Memphis Blue’s Challenge, and will be representing South Australia at the International Blues Challenge in Tennessee next year.

Mia Todd
Mia is a passionate artist who recently completed her degree in Bachelor of Design in Animation and Illustration and a Diploma in Screen and Media. In high school she created and illustrated a book for publication, assisted in the creation of a mural, and in Year 12 received an Excellence Award in Arts for her SACE artwork. In 2023, Mia established Mia Todd Arts to sell her original artwork and inspire the community. Her business became more well known after winning the Premier's Reading Challenge poster competition in 2024, and the Premier’s Be Active Promotion Poster Competition in 2025.

She shares her artwork on social platforms, exhibitions and markets including but not limited to ComiCon, Adelaide Artcade and the Walkerville Christmas Fair, allowing her to connect her art to the community. Her personal, custom commissioned pieces demonstrate her exceptional creativity and passion. She continues to create animated works and is continuously working towards developing her creative skills in the industry.

Melanie Filmer
Melanie Filmer who is very active in the Performing Arts displaying passion, skill and inspiration in encouraging others in the community. She previously used her role as a Year 12 Music Captain at King’s Baptist Grammar School to inspire, uplift and contribute to her school community and she continues to do so in her roles in the Creative Arts outside of school positively impacting a wider community. Some of the other roles she was involved in includes helping with make-up and sound at Junior School Musicals, MC-ing Recital Nights and Arts Showcase Nights, weekly Music Captain meetings with staff and organising Arts competitions throughout the year.

Sumdidumdi
Sumdidumdi is a band created by Summer and Indi. They began with playing cover songs but have now developed their own original sound. They have hosted their own gigs and events to support musicians of all genres. They pride themselves on their ability to bring together members of different creative communities in a respectful and safe environment where there is freedom of creative expression.

At Kumon Modbury Education Centre, we believe every young person's effort deserves recognition, which is why we are thrilled to sponsor the Youth Award and support local talent.

Alessia Russo
Alessia consistently turns her compassion into meaningful action that creates positive change in her community. Alessia has raised awareness of period poverty by educating her peers and coordinating donations of essential hygiene products for women in need. As an active member of Kildare College Living Justice Living Peace, she volunteers her time preparing meals for people experiencing homelessness, supports the St Vincent de Paul Winter and Christmas Appeals, and participated in the College Sleepout in solidarity with those facing homelessness.

Alessia is also passionate about social justice and refugee rights, educating herself through advocacy, interviews, and engagement with community organisations. She willingly supports fundraising initiatives for vulnerable women and individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

Alessia has a genuine commitment to helping others. Her leadership, advocacy, and service have made a tangible difference to the lives of vulnerable people and inspired others to contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

Kildare College Advocacy Captains
The Advocacy Captains have shown that meaningful change begins when young people who are willing to speak up and take action. After recognising that stereotypes and racial assumptions were affecting the experiences of some students, they chose not to ignore the issue. Instead, they developed and facilitated a 90-minute workshop ‘Respect Starts with Us’ for Year 7 students focused on understanding racism, challenging assumptions, and building empathy.

This initiative was entirely student-driven, reflecting the group's commitment to creating a more inclusive and respectful community. Their willingness to tackle a complex and sensitive issue required courage, leadership, and a strong sense of responsibility towards others.

Oliver Shephard-Bayly
Oliver Shephard-Bayly consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to young people.  He shows leadership through his active roles on the Youth Affairs Council of South Australia (YACSA) Board and the Adelaide University Student Board, where he consistently advocates for young people and ensures diverse voices are heard.

As a Board Member of YACSA, he contributes to statewide youth policy, sector development, and strategic planning. His role on the Adelaide University Student Board highlights his commitment to improving student wellbeing, academic representation, and campus inclusion. Oliver has led and supported multiple youth engagement initiatives, contributed to policy submissions, and represented young people in high level discussions.

His peers consistently acknowledge his calm leadership style, strong communication skills, and ability to bring people together.  Oliver’s achievements demonstrate not only personal excellence, but a genuine passion for improving the lives of young people across South Australia

Katrina Cheng & Jessica Peckman
Katrina and Jessicawere able to inspire students, staff and the wider community to take action and care for the environment through activities that support our ecosystems, promoting environmental responsibility. They successfully raised $1332 for the Australian Conservation Foundation, helping to support conservation beyond their school community.

Jade Curwood
Jade is a coach for one of Tea Tree Gully Netball Club’s primary teams. They have won 2 premierships and remain undefeated this season. Jade has driven exceptional growth in her players and grown not only their netball skills but also their life skills through teamwork and confidence.