Axedale teen becomes youngest-ever Bendigo Young Citizen of the Year

AXEDALE teenager Phannika Finnerty has been named the City of Greater Bendigo’s Young Citizen of the Year.

Recognised for leadership, compassion and community impact, Phannika, at just 15 years of age, is the youngest ever recipient of the award.

The award recognises her contribution to community life through her volunteering with Reflections at Eppalock, a dementia-inclusive community initiative of the Dementia Alliance.

Phannika has contributed almost 600 hours of voluntary service over the past 15 months.

Her work supports people living with dementia and cognitive decline, their carers and the broader community.

“I love going to Reflections; I don’t see it as work,” Phannika said.

“Reflections reimagines the way we care for people, and we all work hard to reduce the stigma attached to dementia.”

Living with autism herself and caring for three younger siblings who are also on the autism spectrum, Phannika brings deep lived understanding to her role.

She has played a lead role in the Dementia Buddies program, helping to build meaningful intergenerational connections and showing how young people can contribute with empathy, insight and respect.

Phannika’s confidence, leadership and advocacy have grown with her volunteering. She speaks publicly about dementia, inclusion and youth leadership, inspiring others to see the value of community service and intergenerational care.

“Through my participation, I think I have received more than I have given,” she said. “When I first started 15 months ago, I was very shy and didn’t look at people when they spoke to me.

“Now I feel confident.

“I love chatting with people who visit and presenting to organisations about the importance of believing in young people and helping them reach their potential.”

She encouraged others to consider volunteering.

“Volunteering is great; you should try it,” Phannika said. “It makes you feel good.

“You meet lots of new people, learn lots of things, and it’s very rewarding.

“Helping others makes you feel good about yourself.”

Dementia Alliance founder and president Sandra Slatter said Phannika’s recognition reflects what is possible when young people are trusted and supported.

“Phannika does us incredibly proud,” Ms Slatter said.

“She reminds us that leadership has no age and that when communities invest in young people, they don’t just grow programs, they grow leaders.

“Phannika’s award celebrates not only her individual contribution, but the power of inclusive, community-led care where young people, carers and those living with dementia work together with dignity and respect.”

SANDRA JAMES