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Hills Shire Youth Ambassadors
perfectly, but just to the best of your ability.”
As Youth Ambassador, Advika is passionate about celebrating diversity through youth-led storytelling, amplifying youth voices and addressing mental health in an honest and inviting way. One of her favourite initiatives so far has been the“ Message Tree” project, which encourages young people to share their thoughts and reflections in a safe, creative space. She also mentioned that going to official events and meeting people has been a particular highlight for her.
“ It’ s been rewarding to see people engage with it and feel comfortable sharing their messages. I’ ve also enjoyed attending community events such as the Australia Day Awards ceremony, where I had the honour of presenting the Young Citizen of the Year Award and Highly Commended Award. I met so many so many talented young people!“
Her message to local young people is clear:“ Don’ t underestimate how much your voices matter just because of your age. If something matters to you, I truly encourage you to speak up about it.” Rihanna Soundranayagam For Rihanna Soundranayagam, volunteering quickly grew from an interest into a passion.
“ I realised how much support exists in the community and how powerful it is when young people step up,” she said.“ It became something I genuinely loved doing rather than just something to add to my resume.”
Rihanna has volunteered as the Social Media Youth Officer for Hills Youth Army for the past two years and serves as Director and Social Media and Marketing Manager for Hills Outreach Volunteering. Her dedication to community engagement and youth participation made the Youth Ambassador role a natural progression.
“ Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose,” she said.“ It has helped shape who I am by teaching me empathy, leadership and the value of community.”
Currently balancing volunteering with studying for her university degree and part time work, Rihanna says organisation and alignment with her values help to keep her various activities in balance.“ I prioritise volunteering because it aligns closely with my passions.”
Her role as Youth Ambassador includes increasing youth engagement in volunteering, expanding local activities for young people and fostering inclusivity across the Shire.
With help from volunteers of the Hills Youth Army, she project managed the Youth Passport initiative, which encourages young people to explore the Hills, attend events and get involved in local opportunities.
“ I’ ve loved connecting directly with young people and hearing their ideas,” she said.“ Youth input is so important when shaping opportunities.”
Rihanna describes feeling incredibly grateful and excited when she learned she had been selected as Youth Ambassador.
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Both Ambassadors have worked on projects to connect with the young people of the community.
“ It was really validating to have my commitment recognised, and it motivated me to give my best to the role.”
Her advice to other young people is simple but powerful.“ Do not underestimate the impact you can have. Getting involved, whether through volunteering, attending events or sharing your ideas, it really does make a difference.”
Together, Advika and Rihanna represent a generation of thoughtful, driven and community-minded young leaders. Through their combined strengths of creativity, empathy, leadership and a deep commitment to inclusion they
$ 13 at are helping ensure that young people across The Hills are not only heard but empowered.
The Youth Ambassador Program continues to play a vital role in connecting Council with the next generation, creating meaningful pathways for youth participation and shaping projects that reflect the real needs and aspirations of the community.
Advika and Rihanna are determined to make their time as Ambassadors count by creating opportunities and proving that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are already making their impact today.
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