Ballarat young people recognised for contributions to their community

A junior youth group in regional Victoria has been nominated as part of their local council youth awards for their contributions to the community. 

The Ballarat junior youth spiritual empowerment program, made up of young people aged between 12 and 15, was a finalist in the 2025 City of Ballarat Youth Awards under the group project category.

The award recognises a team of young people who have come together to plan and deliver a project, event, or service that benefits others. The group could be from a school, volunteer organisation, club, or just a group of friends with a shared goal. Their project should show teamwork, leadership, and a positive impact on their community. 

The junior youth were nominated for their commitment to advancing the spiritual, social and material development of their neighbourhood. Over the past year, the group has undertaken several social action projects within their community, having identified the negative forces prevalent around them.  

Service projects have included a tree-planting session at a nearby farm, raising funds for homelessness through multiple efforts, and a community dinner to promote unity and raise awareness about mental health and street violence.

Every week, the group also comes together before the spiritual education activities held in the neighbourhood of Delacombe and cooks a breakfast for all those participating. This is seen as a means of addressing food insecurity and uniting people through food. 

Falling between the ages of 12 and 15 and representing a transition from childhood to youth, junior youth experience rapid physical, intellectual, and emotional changes. Their spiritual powers expand and a new level of awareness fosters in them an increased interest in profound questions and in their talents and abilities. Directing their new abilities towards selfless service to humanity is essential at this age. 

One of the junior youth, Haydar, says he is grateful to be making an impact on society at such a young age. 

“It is always rewarding when you bring joy to other people through service,” he says. 

Another participant, Matilda, says it “feels great” to contribute towards her community through tailored acts of service. 

“I love helping those who are less fortunate and it’s a great opportunity for us as a group to bond and brand out to meet people and each day we have a different task.”

Since 2005, the Ballarat Youth Awards have recognised the leadership, creativity, kindness, and dedication of young people aged 12-25, as well as the influential adults who support them. 

This year’s theme, ‘Ignite the Spark’, reflected the power young people have to inspire change.

Feature image: Meda Design