Eli Asta (Wolf) - Winner 12-17 years

Eli has been chosen to win the Creativity and Innovation Award for their contributions to the community through music. Their dedication to supporting classmates and volunteering in music-based community youth events demonstrates their commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive environment. Eli’s support through these events not only helps to showcase local talent but also brings young people together, creating a strong sense of community through promoting creativity and collaboration.

Chloe Elizabeth Karen Lovell - Winner 18-25 years

Chloe Elizabeth Karen Lovell is an outstanding nominee for the Creativity and Innovation Award, recognized for her exceptional contributions as Co-Director of the 2024 production of Cinderella at Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre. Chloe dedicated over 500 hours to mentoring 56 young performers, nurturing their talents while fostering a culture of social inclusion. Her leadership creates a safe and empowering environment where vulnerable youth can build self-esteem and confidence through the arts. Having once been a participant herself, Chloe deeply understands the transformative power of the program. She often says, "I love what I do. It is such a privilege to make a difference." Her work demonstrates the profound impact of artistic practice in driving positive change within the community

Ayva Ryan - Winner 12-17 years

Ayva, a proud First Nations student at Bendigo Senior School since 2025, has made a remarkable impact through her leadership and community involvement. She served as the EmCee at the Central Victorian Indigenous Careers Expo, guiding over 100 attendees and ensuring the event ran smoothly. Ayva also volunteered as a student leader at the STEM camp for Years 7-10 at Bendigo Tech School, where she inspired and connected with participants. She actively participates in her school’s Tutor group and has volunteered for the Korin Gamij Institute AFL9 carnival for First Nations students. Always eager to contribute, Ayva regularly offers to deliver an Acknowledgment of Country at community events and signed up for the La Trobe University Indigenous camp. Her initiative, reliability, and pride in her culture make her a true role model.

Asher Paton - Winner 18-25 years

Since becoming a headspace Bendigo Youth Ambassador in March 2024, Asher has made a significant impact on the community through their dedication to supporting youth mental health and wellbeing. They have attended 16 Youth Ambassador meetings and volunteered at 18 community, school, and organizational events, providing valuable information about available resources. Asher's leadership skills were evident when they presented the Youth Ambassador Consortia report and contributed insights to local mental health discussions with key officials. Passionate about mental health, Asher recently began working with Anglicare's Keep in Touch Van, further demonstrating their commitment to helping others. Asher is a collaborative and community-minded individual, volunteering at NAIDOC Week events, supporting the HEY Diversity program, and co-emceeing the headspace Bendigo 2024 NAIDOC Week celebration, creating an inclusive atmosphere for all attendees

Anya Singh - Winner 12-17 years

Anya Singh, a remarkable 13-year-old, has been awarded the Youth Award for her exceptional leadership and active contributions to her community. One of her standout achievements is her role as a Master of Ceremonies (MC) at numerous cultural events, including the Diwali and Independence Day celebrations in Bendigo. With grace, confidence, and poise beyond her years, Anya engages audiences of all ages, leaving a lasting impact with her articulate presence and ability to connect with people. In addition to her MC work, Anya is a volunteer at the Eaglehawk Community House, demonstrating her dedication to serving her community. As a member of her school’s Student Representative Council (SRC), Anya plays a key role in advocating for her peers, organizing events, and fostering a sense of unity within the school. Her ability to lead by example, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others reflects her outstanding leadership and commitment to positive change.

Pollyanna Smith - Winner 18-25 years

Pollyanna is a truly deserving recipient of the Excellence in Leadership award, celebrated for her exceptional dedication and leadership across multiple community roles. With over 10 years of involvement in Girl Guides Bendigo, Pollyanna has progressed from a guide helper at age 13 to a qualified unit leader, running weekly meetings for girls aged 5-9 while creating a supportive, inclusive environment. Her leadership extends beyond her local unit; she has contributed valuable insights to Girl Guides Victoria's Reconciliation Action Plan and serves on the state volunteer inclusion and diversity team. In 2022, Pollyanna became the first in her district to earn the prestigious Queen's Guide award, setting a remarkable example for younger guides. Additionally, Pollyanna shares her enthusiasm and mentorship as a coach at Bendigo’s Cheer and Dance, where she helps young dancers and cheerleaders grow with encouragement and care. She also volunteers with the Lord Somers camp program, assisting with staff at camps, and has previously volunteered with Yo Bendigo, further demonstrating her commitment to youth and community development. Pollyanna’s passion for volunteering and leadership across such diverse roles makes her an inspiring figure and a deserving recipient of the Excellence in Leadership Award.

The Bendigo Karen Youth Network - Winner

The Bendigo Karen Youth Network (BKYN) deserves the Teamwork and Collaboration award for their impactful Refuge Week initiative in 2024. Partnering with Bendigo TAFE and Bendigo Community Health Services, they organized a pioneering event that raised awareness of the refugee experience and fostered community compassion.

A visual art competition allowed refugees to share their stories, while social media engagement attracted thousands. With over 200 attendees on June 18th, BKYN created a welcoming space for dialogue and connection. Their ongoing volunteer work and advocacy inspire community involvement, showcasing the power of collaboration for meaningful social impact in Bendigo.

Grace Doherty - Winner 18-25 years

Grace has won the award for Sustainability and Environment due to her exceptional dedication to fostering a sustainable future within her community. At just 17 years old, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership, volunteering countless hours as the Festival Director for the Bendigo Sustainability Festival, which is set to engage over 3,000 attendees in 2025. Grace has taken on the substantial responsibility of coordinating the festival's creative program, working closely with local schools and youth groups to ensure that activities not only promote sustainability but also resonate with young people.

Through her advocacy, leadership, and hands-on involvement, Grace has set a shining example of what it means to be a steward of the environment. Her efforts not only promote sustainability but also empower her peers to join her in creating a positive impact, making her a deserving recipient of this award.

Eh Thout Kya - Winner 18-25 years

Eh Thout is a deserving recipient of the Inclusion and Equity Award for her unwavering commitment to making the Bendigo community more accessible, inclusive, and equitable. As the Youth Project Officer at Bendigo Foodshare, she has led initiatives that promote food security and actively engage over 450 young people, helping them overcome barriers through programs like Cooking for Change! and Café for a Day.

Her dedication to inclusion extends beyond her work at Foodshare, as she also plays a pivotal role in the Karen Organisation of Bendigo and the Bendigo Karen Advisory Committee. Through these platforms, she has created opportunities for the integration of Karen refugees, breaking down the social and cultural barriers they face. This includes organizing gardening workshops on growing cultural foods and coordinating community events like the Karen wrist-tying ceremony and New Year celebrations. Eh Thout’s tireless efforts to advocate for and include those who are often excluded or face significant barriers are a true testament to her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable community.