Marles supports next generation of leaders

TWO of Geelong’s next generation of leaders have been recognised in an award organised by Deputy Prime Minister and Corio federal member Richard Marles.

Mr Marles presents the Geelong Young Leader Award annually to inspirational youth leaders in the region.

Applicants were tasked with writing an answer to the question: “What characteristic do you value the most in a leader and why? How do you see yourself using your own leadership skills in the future?”

This year’s winners were Zoe Van Druemel from Fyans Park Primary School in the primary category, and Shanay Jacobs from Matthew Flinders Primary School in the secondary category.

Zoe wrote about how dull our world would be without inspiring people in it. Zoe is inspired by Australia’s first female Prime Minister Julia Gillard who stood up for women’s rights, education and human rights.

She said she was committed to inspiring others by being kind and helping people, however she can.

Shanay is inspired by strong and compassionate women such as Emma Watson who is a committed activist for women’s rights, gender equality and sustainable fashion.

She said she strives to make positive change in the world, big or small and hopes to inspire others to do the same.

The judging panel for this year’s awards were two alumni of the Leaders for Geelong program: Emma Standen from Barwon Health and Kimberley Sinnott from the Geelong Arts Centre.

Richard Marles congratulated the two winners, as well as all the finalists for their inspirational leadership qualities, last week.

“The Geelong Young Leaders awards highlights the exceptional future leaders we are so lucky to have in our community,” he said.

“There were a number of exceptional submissions, but those which stood out to me were both Zoe and Shanay’s applications which were both inspired by strong women.”