Empowering tomorrow’s leaders

The City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters is proud to celebrate the achievements of several outstanding young citizens whose recent adventures have taken them far beyond our community – from Japan to Texas, New South Wales to our own Parliament House.

Thanks to the support of the Council’s Young Achievers Program, these students are not only pursuing their passions, but gaining life-changing experiences and shaping the future in sport, science and leadership.

Binghan’s robotics journey

For Binghan, representing Australia at the ‘FIRST Championship’ in Houston, Texas, was more than just an international robotics competition – it was an immersive educational journey that bridged innovation, culture and global friendship.

A member of team ‘Koalafied 6996#’, Binghan was part of a dynamic group that competed on the world stage, sharing ideas with students from over 10 countries.

“We got the opportunity to talk about our robot, our country and culture, and most importantly, how we can improve based on this year’s performance,” he said.

Highlights of the trip included exchanging gifts with international teams and visiting NASA’s Johnson Space Centre, a dream come true for any aspiring engineer.

“I saw real Apollo spacecraft, visited astronaut training facilities and stood beneath the mighty Saturn V rocket,” Binghan reflected.

The experience was enriched further by the event’s ‘Innovation Faire’, where he engaged with global institutions like MIT, Harvard and industry leaders such as BAE Systems and HAAS.

Supported with $500 from the Young Achievers Program, Binghan’s journey showcases how early investment in STEM can ignite curiosity, grow international awareness, and inspire bold career dreams.

Jack’s soccer challenge in Japan

For Jack, participating in the COPA Toreros International Soccer Tournament in Tokyo was more than just a competitive event, it was a lesson in resilience, respect and cultural connection.

Representing Australia on the field, Jack found himself inspired not only by the elite skill of international players, but by the sportsmanship and discipline of his Japanese peers.

“Before every game, we bowed to the referees and coaches. It was all about showing respect – even in tough games, the Japanese players were kind and composed,” Jack said.

The experience sparked a new level of passion for the sport and a desire to bring those same values home.

“I came back wanting to be like the Japanese kids – they were resilient, kind and focused,” he shared.

With $500 in funding from the Council’s program, Jack’s journey illustrates the power of sport to connect cultures, challenge personal limits and inspire character development through international experience.

Isabelle’s ice hockey ambitions

As a young teen, Isabelle already knows what it means to skate among the nation’s best.

Competing in the Phillip Ginsberg 13U National Ice Hockey Championship in New South Wales, she proudly represented her state and demonstrated both skill and dedication at the elite level.

With support from the Young Achievers Program, Isabelle was awarded $250 in funding to assist with travel and participation costs.

She expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunity.

“The tournament provided an incredible platform to challenge myself, learn from high-level competition and build strong connections within the ice hockey community.”

More than a test of skill, the event offered an invaluable growth opportunity.

“Your support has played a crucial role in my development and I look forward to continuing my journey with the experiences gained from this tournament.”

Isabelle’s story is a reminder of how grassroots support can spark elite pathways and help passionate young athletes pursue their dreams with confidence.

Akshaya’s leadership in Junior Parliament

Akshaya, is advocating for social change.

As a delegate in the YMCA Junior Parliament Program, she took part in the 10th annual sitting of this inspiring youth-led initiative, supported by $150 from the Young Achievers Program.

Representing the Health and Wellbeing Committee, Akshaya worked with peers to draft and present a bill aimed at enhancing the quality of life for older South Australians.

Their proposed programs – including intergenerational activities between aged care residents and kindergartens – sought to create meaningful connections and community support.

“The environment was incredibly welcoming. I felt like I could contribute authentically and respectfully,” she shared.

“The experience affirmed my values and showed me how important it is to use my voice.”

Akshaya’s reflections demonstrate the program’s deeper impact – empowering young people to step confidently into leadership, engage in real policy discussion, and build networks with mentors and peers across the state.

Investing in tomorrow

Each of these inspiring young people began their journey right here in our community.

Whether travelling overseas to compete in global arenas or advocating for change in our own parliament, they have taken their passions to new heights thanks to the support of the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Young Achievers Program.

Designed to offer small grants for individuals aged 10–18, the program supports a wide range of pursuits – from sport, academia, art, culture and leadership.

While the financial assistance may seem modest, the outcomes are often transformative.

As we celebrate these success stories, we’re reminded of the importance of investing in young people, not just as future leaders, but as changemakers in the here and now.

Their journeys are a testament to the power of opportunity, encouragement and community support.

Find out more, visit: Young Achievers Program