Finalists

Elsta Foy

Elsta Foy, an esteemed Walmanjano Yawuru Elder, nurse, and longtime Broome Councillor, has dedicated nearly 70 years to uplifting the Broome community. Despite facing racism and obstacles, Elsta’s childhood was marked by resilience and a refusal to see anything as out of her reach. At 15, she secured a nursing assistant job and later moved to Perth for nursing training. She became Broome’s first Community Health Nurse, breaking barriers as the first Aboriginal nurse permitted to administer community healthcare in a public hospital setting nationwide.

In 1978, Elsta saw the acute need and co-advocated for the establishment of Broome’s first remote Aboriginal Medical Service, a vital institution still serving the community today. Her commitment to service extended to being the first CEO of Milliya Rumurra, an alcohol rehabilitation centre, and serving as a Shire Councillor from 1990 to 2023, where she championed Aboriginal rights and gender equality. During this tenure, which lasted well into her eighties, Elsta broke down barriers of gender, age, and race and made significant contributions to the shire’s governance.

Despite facing segregation, Elsta advocated for inclusion, forming a diverse women’s basketball team, and joined and became the first female member in 1967, where she became a champion 19 times. Elsta refused to be isolated and fought strongly by example, for particularly Aboriginal women to be included at local sporting clubs.

Described as a silent achiever and tireless advocate, Elsta’s legacy spans health, governance, sport, and leadership, inspiring generations of Aboriginal youth and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.

Kim Collard

Kim Collard, a Balladong-Wilman man, boasts a distinguished career spanning the public sector, higher education, and business, leaving an indelible mark on Aboriginal communities and broader society. Transitioning from a boilermaker to the police force, Kim embarked on a decade-long academic journey at Curtin University, where he held pivotal roles in Indigenous cultural studies, preserving the Balladong dialect and educating others on First Nations culture.

Kim’s enterprising spirit flourished with the establishment of two successful businesses, Kulbardi and Kooya Australia Fleet Solutions, both making significant strides in the mining sector. Leveraging his success, Kim created the Bibbulmun Fund, investing in community projects and returning one million dollars to support Aboriginal people, ranging from education initiatives to flood relief efforts in the Kimberley. The unique and innovative indigenous-led organisation has the key goal of facilitating positive change ‘for Aboriginal people by Aboriginal people’.

As an inadvertent mentor, Kim has paved the way for young Aboriginal entrepreneurs, offering guidance and employment opportunities, fostering a new generation of business leaders. Over a decade of philanthropy, Kim has supported 19 charitable organisations, funding projects like the Pinnacle Foundation Bibbulmun Scholarship and essential medical equipment in remote areas. Kim has also funded two dialysis machines in Cooper Peedy, so locals with renal failure can stay close to country for treatment, rather than travelling long distances to a capital city.

Kim’s trailblazing leadership in Indigenous business and philanthropy underscores his commitment to Aboriginal self-determination and long-term solutions, setting a precedent for Indigenous-led initiatives nationwide.

Dr Mara West

Dr Mara West, a respected Yamatji Elder, is renowned for her ability to unite people across industries through deep listening and bold speaking. Her lifelong dedication to Aboriginal health and well-being has shaped a distinguished career spanning education, sustainable development, and health research.

Despite facing poverty and racism in her youth, Mara pursued higher education, becoming the fourth Aboriginal graduate from Murdoch University. Recognizing education as pivotal, she pioneered satellite TAFE institutions, bringing essential skills to Aboriginal communities without requiring them to leave their country and families.

Mara’s commitment to empowering Aboriginal individuals extended to the mining sector, where she defied sceptics to establish on-site training programs. Her communication skills and perseverance not only provided valuable training but also offered insights into industry life, preparing students for challenges like rosters and gender imbalances.

At the Telethon Kids Institute’s Kulunga Aboriginal Unit, Mara ensures research meets rigorous standards and respects Aboriginal knowledge and elders’ authority. She advocates for community-centred research, guiding researchers to navigate Aboriginal health issues with cultural sensitivity and governance.

Throughout her four-decade career, Mara has been a tireless advocate for changing perceptions of Aboriginal people and addressing health and social disparities. Her leadership extends to chairing the Aboriginal stream of the International Conference on Sustainable Water and Wastewater Systems, leading to the establishment of the Homelands Water and Energy Group at Murdoch University.

With warmth, patience, and determination, Mara continues to bridge divides and champion positive change for Aboriginal peoples.

Caroline Wood AM

Caroline Wood AM, co-founder, and CEO of the Centre for Stories has pioneered a safe and inclusive space for underrepresented and marginalised communities to share their narratives through written and oral storytelling. Recognising the exclusion of diverse writers from the competitive publishing world, Caroline established the Centre to provide inclusive support and mentoring opportunities for emerging writers from minority backgrounds.

Since its inception, the Centre has mentored 65 writers through an intensive three-year program, over 1000 people have been coached in oral storytelling, the youth program has reach approximately 500 young people and we have reached audiences of over 30,000. Caroline, a migrant and woman of colour herself, advocates for challenging societal stereotypes and embracing diversity, inclusion, and lived experiences.

The Centre primarily engages with new migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, First Nations people, the LGBTQI+ community, and individuals with disabilities. Currently, Centre for Stories youth program mentors young people from complex and under-resourced communities to share stories about who they are and what matters to them.

Caroline’s dedication to increasing representation for minority groups and driving social change has created a welcoming community where stories are shared, taught, and learned. Her work has the potential to profoundly impact individuals feeling isolated or marginalized, offering them narratives with which they can identify.

Beyond the Centre for Stories, Caroline has contributed significantly to the WA arts scene through various projects, including co-founding Margaret River Press and Australian Short Story Festival. A current board member of Creative Australia she has also served on the boards of Amnesty International and the Small Publishers Network, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to diversity and cultural representation in the community.

Dr Dorothy Erickson AM

Dr Dorothy Erickson AM, an internationally acclaimed artist-jeweller, historian, and author, is currently being celebrated with a retrospective exhibition at the Art Gallery of WA, highlighting her influential career spanning over five decades.

A pioneer in her field, Dorothy was the first Western Australian to complete a new four-year course in Jewellery and Silversmithing at WAIT (Curtin University), leading to a distinguished career known for her kinetic jewellery and intricate designs inspired by geometry and Western Australian wildflowers. Dorothy’s groundbreaking solo exhibition at Galerie am Graben in Vienna in the 1980s propelled her onto the international stage, paving the way for over 40 solo exhibitions and more than 350 group exhibitions worldwide. Leveraging her own reputation and writing skills, Dorothy has fostered connections between Western Australian artists and the global community, notably through her role as a lecturer and mentor at Curtin University. Throughout her career, Dorothy has been dedicated to giving back to the design community, serving on various committees, and founding the WA Jewellers Group, now part of the Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group Australia (Inc). She has also made significant contributions to documenting the history of the arts in Western Australia, with over 300 articles and chapters published and several books on art and design, including her latest comprehensive work profiling West Australian designer/makers. Dorothy’s lasting impact extends beyond her artistic achievements, as she continues to promote and preserve the work of West Australian artists while fostering connections and opportunities for future generations in the arts community.

Jenny Simpson

Jenny Simpson, CEO of AWESOME Arts Australia, is dedicated to providing every child with an enriching arts experience. With a background rooted in community festivals, Jenny returned to her arts roots in 2001, driven by the transformative power of the arts, especially for children.

Under Jenny’s leadership, AWESOME Arts Australia has delivered 17 International Arts Festivals, reaching hundreds of thousands of young people and families. Notably, Jenny has spearheaded projects in isolated and disadvantaged communities, fostering creativity and community connection. One such project in Newman saw children create a vibrant new world, ‘Newmania,’ highlighting their newfound creativity and confidence.

As an inclusive leader, Jenny has prioritized accessibility, ensuring representation of artists with disabilities, and implementing innovative strategies for neurodivergent children and their families. By providing detailed event summaries to help families navigate potential triggers, AWESOME Festival has become a welcoming space for hundreds of families who may otherwise have felt excluded.

Beyond her role at AWESOME, Jenny serves on volunteer boards and runs a community choir, which has been operating for more than 25 years, embodying her commitment to arts advocacy and community engagement. The group of singers, who have no audition process, sing for fun and friendship. They also visit nursing homes, something Jenny first began doing with her family as a young performer.

Through her diverse contributions, Jenny continues to champion the transformative power of the arts for all.

Christina Matthews AM

In her 12-year tenure as CEO of the Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA), Christina Matthews AM has led a remarkable transformation of the sport, demonstrating courageous and effective leadership. Under her guidance, WA cricket evolved from a $24 million business into a $43 million business, marked by strategic initiatives and a culture of success.

A pivotal achievement was negotiating the move to Optus Stadium, unlocking new revenue streams, and revitalising the membership structure. Chris’ visionary leadership also drove a $164 million redevelopment project at the WACA precinct, emphasising inclusivity and Aboriginal heritage, with features such as an all-abilities playground and sensory rooms.

Dedicated to diversity and inclusion, Chris established The WA Cricket Foundation, raising $4 million to enhance cricket access, particularly for disadvantaged and disabled individuals. She introduced Pride Rounds in the Big Bash leagues, fostering a more inclusive sporting environment.

She has championed involvement in the game from a grassroots level, significantly improved opportunities for women in the sport, encouraged diversity and disability programs as well as breeding a culture of success in the elite teams.

Beyond cricket, Chris advocates for gender equality and diversity in sports leadership, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring future leaders. She leads a pro-bono service connecting elite female athletes with mentors, ensuring they receive support beyond their sporting careers.

Chris’s tenure at WACA reflects her commitment to business success and community engagement, making her a beacon of leadership and inclusion in the sporting industry.

Adj Associate Professor Sandra Bellekom

Ear Science Institute Australia, led by CEO Adj Associate Professor Sandra Bellekom, is at the forefront of research for curing hearing loss. Sandra, an audiologist driven by a passion for helping others, saw an opportunity to merge technical, clinical, and research skills to combat hearing loss, the third largest health condition globally.

Operating under a unique model where clinical services fund research, the institute has expanded significantly under Sandra’s leadership, boasting 150 staff and twenty Lions Hearing clinics. Their implant clinic is one of Australia’s largest, offering premium care.
Renowned for their work in tissue engineering and cochlear implantation, Ear Science’s researchers have gained international acclaim. Sandra’s strategic recruitment and partnership negotiations with medical manufacturers have propelled the institute’s growth. With plans for nine more clinics in the next three years, Ear Science is making strides in restoring hearing and changing lives.

Early in her career, Sandra, was deeply moved by her first clinical visit to the remote Jigalong community, where she witnessed the dire need for hearing support among Indigenous people. Motivated by the cycle of disadvantage caused by hearing impairment, she spearheaded initiatives to improve access to hearing services in the Pilbara through Ear Science’s Healthy Hearing Outback clinics. Sandra’s leadership expanded these programs, empowering local communities to take charge of their hearing health. She also initiated a global impact by coordinating a hearing aid bank supplying refurbished devices to children in underserved regions. Her efforts have elevated awareness of hearing loss and led to innovative research, changing lives while fostering a successful business at Ear Science.

Dr Vanessa Guthrie AO

Dr Vanessa Guthrie AO has been a pioneering force in the mining industry for over three decades, driving transformative change in environmental stewardship and gender diversity. As a geologist and environmental scientist, she revolutionised attitudes towards land use and rehabilitation, emphasising community engagement and biodiversity restoration.

Vanessa’s career milestones include becoming WA’s first female mine manager at Alcoa’s Huntly, and the first woman appointed to the Minerals Council of Australia board and as Chair. Her leadership roles in major companies like Western Mining Corporation, Alcoa, Woodside, and Toro Energy have solidified her influence in the industry.

Currently serving on the boards of Santos, Lynas Rare Earths, Orica, and North American Construction Group, Vanessa also holds key positions as Chancellor of Curtin University and Chair of the Trailblazer program. This innovative initiative, supported by a $50 million Federal Government grant, aims to accelerate commercialization in the critical minerals industry.

Vanessa’s impact extends beyond corporate realms. She volunteers as a mentor to other leaders, and she initiated the Moorditj Yorga Scholarship Program at Curtin University, empowering mature Aboriginal women to pursue higher education. Through her leadership, the program has transformed the lives of participants and their families, demonstrating the profound value of education and belief in one’s potential.

Vanessa’s legacy is defined by her unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, gender equality, and community empowerment, making her an inspirational figure in both the mining industry and broader society.

Adam Przytula

Adam Przytula, driven by his own experience with bullying as a teenager, founded Armed for Life to combat bullying and promote compassion among students. Having experienced the lack of mental health support in schools firsthand, Adam aims to instigate change through education and intervention.

Armed for Life has reached over one million students in over 500 schools across the state, in NSW and South Africa. Adam’s personal connection with students, sharing his own struggles with bullying and mental health, resonates deeply, with the organization conducting impactful programs and presentations.

Recognising the growing mental health challenges among today’s youth, Adam emphasizes the importance of resilience and well-being education from an early age. With a focus on practical strategies, Armed for Life equips students with tools to navigate adversity and build resilience.

While initially focused on bullying, the organization has expanded its programs to address a range of issues including school engagement, well-being, and leadership.

Adam’s commitment to supporting students extends beyond presentations, with the creation of “The Road to Resilience,” a resource for families distributed to schools statewide. Additionally, the establishment of a charitable arm ensures support for schools and communities in need.

Adam’s goal is to empower students with a sense of value and worth, a message he wishes he had heard as a younger version of himself. Through Armed for Life, he strives to make a lasting difference in the lives of students, offering hope and guidance for a brighter future.

Dr Dayna Pool

Dr Dayna Pool is a pioneering figure in neurological rehabilitation, globally renowned for her transformative work with wheelchair-bound children through the Healthy Strides Foundation. Stemming from her groundbreaking postdoctoral research, which challenged misconceptions about irreversible mobility decline, Dayna’s program highlighted remarkable improvements in just weeks.

Facing early obstacles, including financial uncertainties and professional doubts, Dayna established the Healthy Strides Foundation in 2018. Her dedication attracted researchers worldwide, leading to rapid expansion in Perth and beyond.

One notable success story is Palmer, who, after six weeks in the program, reduced a 10-metre walk from two and a half minutes to just 17 seconds. Dayna’s foundation now employs 22 clinicians, serving 300 programs annually, with a six-month waitlist.

Dayna’s impact extends beyond treatment, with long-term follow-up and community engagement. She shares her expertise globally and has spearheaded initiatives like iRehab and Therapists Abroad, enhancing access to evidence-based therapies.

She has significantly improved access to new evidence-based techniques, therapies and interventions for the children in Western Australia and has brought the latest technology and equipment to the state. Passionate about training future professionals, Dayna established ResearchWorks, a podcast disseminating knowledge to clinicians and academia.

As a result of her revolutionary work, children who had been told they would never walk again are back up on their feet. Once resigned to wheelchairs, they are now walking tall and embracing life with newfound confidence and autonomy. Her approach has empowered children to reclaim autonomy and confidence, defying expectations, and inspiring hope for a brighter future.

Mitch Messer

Mitch Messer, a stalwart advocate for the Cystic Fibrosis (CF) community for over 40 years, draws upon personal experience after losing two brothers to the condition. His advocacy journey began as a teenager, recognising the disconnect between researchers and the CF community, prompting his mission to improve research processes with a focus on community needs.

As President of Cystic Fibrosis WA, Mitch initiated impactful initiatives based on community feedback, leading to the establishment of home support services still in operation today. In his current role at Telethon Kids Institute, he bridges the gap between researchers and the community, mentoring and facilitating collaboration to translate research into meaningful improvements.

A highlight of his advocacy career was advocating for funding of CF therapies like Trikafta, transforming the lives of thousands since 2019. Mitch’s efforts emphasized the personal benefits of these treatments, rallying public support and ensuring consumer voices were heard in decision-making processes.

Driven by his own CF journey, Mitch remains committed to ensuring equitable access to life-changing treatments for all CF patients. Despite his extensive advocacy, he believes his work is not complete until every individual can benefit from breakthrough therapies.

As a founding member of the Health Consumers Council WA, Mitch champions consumer-centric healthcare, advocating for improved access and outcomes. His unwavering dedication underscores his belief in the power of consumer voices to drive positive change in the healthcare system.

Professor Desiree Silva

Professor Desiree Silva is a trailblazer in paediatrics and child development, renowned for her groundbreaking research and compassionate care. Leading as the Head of Paediatrics and Neonatology at Joondalup Health Campus, she has positively impacted the lives of thousands of children over 35 years of dedicated service.

Desiree’s crowning achievement is her pivotal role in establishing and securing funding for the ORIGINS project, the largest of its kind in Australia. This groundbreaking initiative tracks 10,000 children from pregnancy to adolescence, shedding light on complex health issues like allergies, asthma, anxiety, autism, and ADHD. Her leadership and expertise were instrumental in securing $26 million in funding, enabling essential research that has garnered international recognition.

Beyond ORIGINS, Desiree is a leading voice in mental health research, particularly in ADHD care. Her publication of the ADHD Go-To Guide has provided invaluable support for parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals navigating this challenging condition.

Desiree’s impact extends beyond the laboratory. She has been a tireless advocate for rural outreach programs, providing essential care to remote communities in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions. Her research on community swimming pools in Indigenous communities has led to tangible improvements in health outcomes and community well-being.

Passionate about nature-based play, Desiree’s involvement with Nature Play WA has facilitated programs to enhance children’s interaction with the natural environment, promoting mental health and physical development.

Her legacy as an inspirational leader in paediatrics and child development continues to enrich the lives of countless children and families across Western Australia.

Professor Nick Gottardo

Professor Nick Gottardo, Head of the Department of Oncology/Haematology at Perth Children’s Hospital, is a beacon of positivity and dedication in the realm of paediatric cancer treatment. Recognizing the lag in brain cancer treatment for children, Nick pursued advanced training in the US, equipping himself with cutting-edge techniques to run innovative trials safely.

Returning to Australia, he co-leads a research laboratory focusing on children’s brain cancer at Telethon Kids Institute, aiming to develop targeted treatments with minimal long-term side effects.

Nick’s commitment to enhancing both survival and quality of life is evident in his research and clinical practice. He emphasizes dignity in treatment, striving for outcomes where patients can lead fulfilling lives. His impact extends beyond his immediate patients; he heads industry bodies and clinical trials groups, contributing significantly to the advancement of childhood cancer care regionally and internationally.

A respected figure in his field, Nick’s philosophy of always doing his best permeates his approach to patient care and research. His ward is characterised by a positive, inclusive atmosphere, valuing the collective effort of everyone involved in patient care.

Despite his expertise, Nick remains humble, readily seeking advice from global peers and aiding complex cases worldwide. His profound impact is evidenced by the heartfelt nomination for an award by a family who, despite their own tragedy, deeply appreciate Nick’s compassion and dedication. For Nick, patients are not just cases; they become part of his extended family, underscoring his unwavering commitment to their well-being.

John Curtin Distinguished Professor Steven Tingay

Steven Tingay’s career started at age five with a passion for space ignited by a book. He is a distinguished figure in astronomy and astrophysics, serving as the founder and Executive Director of the Curtin Institute for Radio Astronomy (CIRA), Deputy Executive Director of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), and Director of the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA). Notably, Tingay played a crucial role in securing half of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project for Western Australia, positioning the state as a global leader in astronomy – a project he has been involved in for close to 25 years. Steven’s leadership of the MWA, and its success, was seen as a key factor in WA being selected for the two billion Euro multinational SKA initiative. Steven’s leadership of the MWA assisted in proving WA had the location, capacity, workforce, and motivation to build and operate a telescope to the scale of the SKA project.

From here, WA is poised to be forefront in discovering the early Universe’s deepest mysteries with construction of hundreds of thousands of antennas now underway in our state. This endeavour aims to illuminate the origins of the first stars and galaxies, while delivering extensive benefits to science, society, and Western Australia’s economy.

He initiated collaboration with Indigenous communities, resulting in innovative projects like the “Ilgarijiri” art exhibition and the film “Star Dreaming,” which blend astrophysics with traditional cultural knowledge. Additionally, Tingay is actively involved promoting astronomy through public engagement, participating in speaking engagements, school visits, and open days, reflecting his commitment to merging science with cultural and educational outreach.

Damien Oliver

Damien Oliver, known affectionately as Ollie, is a legendary figure in Australian horse racing, boasting a career spanning five decades filled with remarkable achievements. Hailing from Byford, Perth, with a family deeply rooted in racing, Ollie’s journey began galloping ponies bareback in the bushland behind his home. Rising swiftly through the ranks, he garnered his first win at just 15 years old in Bunbury before transitioning to Melbourne to pursue greater opportunities.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ollie amassed an impressive 129 Group One wins, including three iconic Melbourne Cup victories. Among these, the emotional 2002 triumph aboard Media Puzzle, days after the tragic loss of his brother, remains etched in racing history. Ollie’s farewell race at Ascot in 2023 drew a massive crowd, highlighting his enduring popularity and significance to the sport.

Beyond the racetrack, Ollie has been a beacon of support for injured jockeys, establishing the Oliver Foundation in honour of his father and brother, who lost their lives in racing accidents. This initiative paved the way for the National Jockeys Trust, providing crucial assistance to jockeys and their families during times of hardship. Despite facing his own challenges, including a broken spine, Ollie remains committed to fundraising and mentoring aspiring jockeys.

His dedication extends to promoting racing locally, participating in programs like Equine Pathways Australia’s ‘Life after Racing’ initiative. Ollie’s visits to schools and involvement in community events reflect his deep connection to Western Australia, where his influence has left an indelible mark on the sport and its community.

Matthew Wearn OAM

Matthew Wearn OAM, an Australian Olympic gold medallist and reigning World Champion sailor, stands as a respected leader in his sport, boasting over a decade of experience in the Australian team. Sailing has been a lifelong passion for Wearn, nurtured from an early age as he witnessed Olympic success, sparking his own aspirations for greatness. Despite facing formidable setbacks, including a severe case of COVID that left him sidelined for months, Wearn displayed remarkable resilience, returning stronger than ever.

His journey saw him secure two World Champion titles in 2023, a testament to his unwavering determination and perseverance. This impressive comeback earned him the prestigious AIS Male Athlete of the Year award, marking the first time a sailor has received such recognition, underscoring his significance in the sporting realm.

Beyond his personal achievements, Wearn is recognised for his humility and dedication to nurturing the next generation of sailors. Actively involved in mentoring younger athletes, he generously shares his knowledge and expertise, particularly with junior clubs.

Despite residing overseas, Wearn remains deeply committed to promoting Australian sailing, frequently visiting clubs in Perth to engage with young competitors and advocate for the sport’s growth and success. His ongoing efforts to foster talent and elevate the profile of sailing highlight his profound impact on the sailing community, both locally and internationally, cementing his legacy as a true champion on and off the water.

Nina Kennedy

Nina Kennedy’s journey in athletics was ignited by watching Steve Hooker’s pole vault triumph at the 2008 Olympics. Now, she stands as a revered competitor, gearing up for the Paris Olympics with hopes of securing a medal. Her breakthrough came in 2023 at the Athletics World Championship in Budapest, where she clinched gold alongside US athlete Katie Moon, highlighting remarkable skill and mental resilience. Setting a new Australian record and achieving the ninth highest female jump of all time, Nina’s performance catapulted her into the spotlight.

Further success followed at the Diamond League competition in Zurich, where she shattered an Australian and Oceanian Indoor World Record. As she eyes the Paris Olympics, Nina exudes confidence and excitement, buoyed by the unwavering support of her friends and family.

Beyond her personal achievements, Nina devotes herself to nurturing the next generation of athletes, actively engaging with Little Athletics clubs as a role model and mentor. Despite her busy training schedule, she volunteers her time at local events, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the sport that shaped her. Admirably, Nina extends her support and guidance to fellow athletes, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and leadership within the WAIS community. Her commitment to inspiring others underscores her status as a respected ambassador for athletics in Western Australia.

Nicolette Beard

Nicolette Beard, co-founder of We Are WomXn and an Advocate for gender equality and the prevention of sexual violence against women, is passionately championing for improved sex-education for young people, focusing on critical topics of healthy relationships, consent, and mental wellbeing.

Recognising the gap between school curricula and the practical needs of young people, Nicolette and her team offer educational programs that tackle complex issues in approachable ways.

With a background in Health Promotion and then Education, Nicolette formed We Are WomXn in 2021 with co-founder Kate Raston. Since then, the program has reached over 15,500 young people across WA, creating safe and supportive spaces led by trained volunteers. These evidence-based and trauma-informed programs aim to enlighten and support young individuals on complex and essential topics in a relaxed, safe and supportive environment.

Nicolette’s commitment extends beyond the classroom; she fosters an online community for ongoing support and guidance and speaks out publicly to promote the values of the We Are WomXn programs. Initiatives like regional trips to engage disengaged young women in local communities and university-based consent promotions demonstrate the breadth of her efforts.

Collaborations with community groups such as Sea Gals, Koya Aboriginal Corporation, Purposeful, and Zero2Hero further expand their reach, highlighting Nicolette’s dedication to empowering young individuals with knowledge and support to navigate challenging situations. Through these initiatives, Nicolette’s passion in helping young people navigate complex issues is clear, channelling the power of education through honest conversations.

Samuel Thomas

Samuel Thomas, at just 17 years old, founded Sam’s Spares with a vision to reduce electronic waste and provide free access to technology for those in need, all while fostering opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. Starting in a small lounge room, he refurbished discarded devices and donated them to charities, quickly expanding as more technology donations poured in. In two years, he diverted 3,800 devices from landfill and aims to donate $1 million dollar’s worth of technology to the Western Australian community in 2024, amazingly he is already a third of the way there.

His remarkable efforts earned him many accolades, including recognition as a Finalist for Young Australian of the Year, WA Young Volunteer of the Year and The 2023 Waste sorted Individual Waste Champion. Sam’s Spares operates as a neurodivergent-led Not-for-Profit, with Sam himself being autistic and having Tourette’s syndrome. He provides training opportunities for neurodivergent individuals through his NDIS support program, teaching them valuable skills in technology repair and refurbishment to help them find long-term employment.

Sam’s dedication extends beyond his organisation, as he volunteers for various initiatives, and serves as one of the 2024 WA Youth Ambassadors, contributing to the planning of Youth Week activities. Through various speaking engagements, he shares his journey and inspires others living with disabilities. Sam’s selfless commitment to his community reflects his passion for creating positive change and reducing electronic waste, leaving behind only a legacy of generosity and empowerment.

Scott Elstermann

Scott Elstermann is a distinguished and highly regarded dancer and choreographer, recognised globally for his innovative work in the field of dance. In 2023, he achieved a rare milestone by being the first Australian choreographer selected to create a new piece for La Biennale di Venezia in Venice. Titled ‘Mosaic’, Scott’s creativity and leadership shone through, collaborating with dancers from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations to deliver a captivating performance.

Scott’s passion for dance was ignited at an early age and he is considered a prodigy of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts after graduating as Dux of his class. His journey includes stellar dance performances and award recognition at a state and national level, including multiple Performing Arts WA Awards and named an Australian Dance Award finalist. His ongoing international achievements extend well beyond Venice, notably the first Australian and youngest-ever recipient of the prestigious Pina Bausch Fellowship for Dance & Choreography in Germany.

Committed to fostering a supportive dance community, Scott champions local artists in all areas of his practice, advocating for collaboration and positivity. He generously shares his expertise as a mentor and teaching artist for various local organisations, nurturing the next generation of dancers through classes, workshops, secondment, and performance opportunities.

Through his leadership, mentorship and artistic vision centred on kindness, Scott Elstermann continues to inspire and elevate the dance community, creating opportunities for all associated artists to thrive and unite in their shared passion for dance.