Youth awards an insight into big things to come

THE winners of the 2026 City of Greater Bendigo Youth Awards have been announced, with 12 young leaders presented with their trophies at The Capital Theatre last month.

The program is an initiative that emerged from engagement with young people in Greater Bendigo – who have been closely involved in their creation and development – and aims to tell the stories and recognise the everyday contributions of individuals in the community that often go unrecognised.

Winners from age groups 12 to 17 and 18 to 25 were chosen across six categories: Creativity and Innovation, Contribution to the Community, Excellence in Leadership, Teamwork and Collaboration, Sustainability and Environment, and Inclusion and Equity.

Each of their stories provide insight into their passion, drive and individual interests.

For example, Liza Edwards, winner of the (ages 18-25) award for Creativity and Innovation, was recognised for her ability to combine creative thinking with practical solutions that have enhanced the student experience at Bendigo TAFE.

Her initiatives include developing pre-packaged food share bags to support students facing food insecurity, introducing a QR code system for discreet reporting of feminine hygiene supplies, and proposing staggered event start times to better accommodate neurodiverse students.

Meanwhile, Ava Parker won the (ages 18-25) Sustainability and Environment award for her impact on Bendigo’s environmental future through her leadership in sustainability and climate action.

At 20, she served as operations director for the 2025 Bendigo Sustainability Festival, coordinating logistics, compliance and a team of young volunteers.

Now co-director of the festival, she is said to lead with integrity, mentoring peers, bridging generational gaps and amplifying young voices in environmental decision-making.

Visit the Yo Bendigo website for more information.