Robotics wiz and STEM advocate Josie Thornton is Kingston’s Young Citizen of the Year for 2023.
The 16-year-old Parkdale Secondary College student was selected from an outstanding group of seven finalists, representing our best and brightest young people.
Passionate and dedicated, Josie spends considerable time sharing her knowledge and mentoring and developing her peers. She is also a member of an all-female robotics team who were awarded the Regional Engineering Inspiration Award at a competition in Wollongong, enabling them to go to Houston in the United States to compete.
Kingston Mayor Hadi Saab said the annual awards are a wonderful celebration of the talents and achievements of our young people.
“We encourage our youth to take an active role in our community and we’re proud to host this event to shine a light on their positive contributions,” Cr Saab said.
“It’s always inspiring to hear the stories of our outstanding nominees and how they are working hard to create better lives for themselves and others. This group are passionate about a cleaner, greener planet and are strong, resilient, outspoken advocates for improvements in their schools and communities.
“They have achieved great things across a wide range of fields and are each making our city an even greater place to be. Congratulations to you all.”
The six other finalists included:
- Naketra Mendes – Naketra is a talented graphic designer who has served for over two years with Kingston Youth Services’ Universal Magazine. Now a senior member, Naketra guides newcomers on their journey with the magazine.
- Tharial Ter – Tharial provides empathy, understanding, support, education, and routine to the young people in the community who have often fallen through the cracks – either by disengaging from school and society, or who have little or no relationship with their family members.
- Caitlin Hughes – Caitlin was awarded the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award in recognition of her personal efforts, school community engagement and achievements. This year she facilitated The Push Up Challenge – a nationwide campaign aiming to make a difference to mental health services across Australia.
- Skye Sutton – Every recess and lunchtime Skye works tirelessly to pick up rubbish from the school grounds at Patterson River Secondary College. She has always been passionate about the environment around her and keeping it clean from litter.
- Olivia Ayyuce – Olivia is passionate about creating an inclusive and engaged school community. She leads by example, and actively supports and participates in numerous programs at Mentone Girls Secondary College. She has championed many issues including, green initiatives and assisted in running the Big Freeze (MND) campaign.
- Harley Wood – Harley has been volunteering at Universal Magazine for the last year. During this time, he has consistently put his hand up to be editor of the magazine. His supportive nature ensures that the Universal Magazine members are always heard and are contributing to the content.
The Youth Awards are open to young people aged 12-25 who have a strong connection to Kingston. To find out more head to .
