Youth Award winners 2025

The annual Boroondara Youth Awards recognise the important role young people and organisations play in contributing to a safer and more resilient community.

Boroondara Youth Voice member, and Environment and Sustainability Award 2023 winner, Evie Flynn, hosted the 2025 Boroondara Youth Awards presentation ceremony. Guest speakers included:

• Cr Rob Baillieu, Riversdale Ward Councillor
• Zeta Hamilton-Durkin, 2024 Creative Arts Award winner

There was a musical performance by band Dysmetria from Youth Hub Live.

Winners

Congratulations to the 2025 finalists and winners.

Leadership (Junior): Jin S Li

Jin was awarded for founding an innovative educational mentorship program, which supports over 45 students through culturally inclusive tutoring.

Leadership (Senior): Matisse Stafford

Matisse was awarded for leadership across education, employment, and volunteering with organisations like the Red Cross and Surf Life Saving Victoria.

Creative Arts: Yong Hao Chan

Yong was awarded for creating new music programs and increasing access to performance opportunities at Balwyn High School.

Environment and Sustainability: Ivy Sheng

Ivy was awarded for her podcast production on fracking, amplifying expert voices and youth awareness through the Australian Youth Climate Coalition and 3CR Radio.

Youth Volunteer: Aaron Oommen

Aaron was awarded for his for commitment to volunteering across school, church, and community, including with The Salvation Army and Rotary’s Interact Club.

Youth Professional: Rosie Hilder

Rosie was awarded for leading inclusive learning practices and supporting student wellbeing through school-wide professional development and support.

Inclusive Youth Program: Swinburne Music Society - Music Mondays

Swinburne Music Society was awarded for providing a free, inclusive music program that creates creative and social opportunities for diverse Swinburne University students.