Achievements celebrated at City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Youth Awards

The community contributions of seven people and one organisation have been recognised at this year’s City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Youth Awards.

Callum Howard, Nandini Gera, Nikola Ulrich, Lillian Kent, Heather Momo, Tehniesha Yorkshire, Mikaela Betts, and Kalgoorlie YMCA received awards at a ceremony at Kalgoorlie Town Hall on Saturday.

Callum was named young tradesperson or apprentice of the year. The Hurlaw Contracting apprentice is working hard towards his trade qualification at Central Regional TAFE, while also helping those in need with donated labour and volunteering at the Nullarbor Muster.

Nandini won the young community champion award for balancing her work as a career and life skills coach with volunteering, advocacy through the Ministerial Youth Advisory Council, and her dream of studying engineering.

She recently earned an 80 per cent scholarship to the prestigious Outward Bound Australia Leadership Program and has been nominated for a WA NDIS Award for her work supporting students with disability.

Young cultural leader Nikola Ulrich is well known for her bush tucker catering and the way she uses food to share stories and traditions.

She mentors younger members of the community, promotes cultural understanding, and is dedicated to keeping language, heritage, and identity strong.

Lillian and Heather shared the youth worker or volunteer of the year award.

Lillian, the youngest member of the Golden You Leadership team, has shown outstanding dedication to mentoring young people across Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

As a youth mentor, she plays a critical role in supporting participants at youth leadership camps, combining her lifeguard and swim teacher qualifications with an empathetic and steady presence.

Lillian is known for her ability to connect with participants — especially those experiencing social anxiety — making them feel safe, included, and empowered.

Heather, a youth co-ordinator at Kalgoorlie YMCA, has worked tirelessly in the youth sector for more than a decade.

She is known for her outreach across regional communities, delivering youth programs in Leonora, Laverton, Coolgardie, and Kurrawang.

Heather also plays a vital role in local events, supporting the city’s youth programs through The Y’s mobile bike workshop.

Tehniesha was recognised with the young achiever award for her exceptional resilience, cultural pride, and leadership.

She was selected by Kalgoorlie YMCA to undertake the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea — one of the most physically and emotionally demanding treks in the world.

Despite facing difficult terrain and injury, she completed the journey with determination and courage, walking in the footsteps of Anzac soldiers and honouring their legacy.

Tehniesha also stands out as a proud and passionate young leader who speaks confidently about her Aboriginal heritage and uses every opportunity to uplift her community and inspire others.

Kalgoorlie YMCA was named youth organisation of the year for going above and beyond, providing life-changing opportunities for young people.

It continues to deliver engaging programs in remote communities, partner with schools across Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and offer youth fitness and wellbeing programs that create lasting positive change.

Mayor Glenn Wilson congratulated all the winners and nominees, saying the awards were a reminder of the incredible young people who called Kalgoorlie-Boulder home.

“Whether it’s apprentices going the extra mile, youth leaders standing up for others, or volunteers giving their time to support the community, each of these young people is making a real difference, and that deserves recognition,” he said.

“Hearing what they’ve already achieved is impressive. They’re helping shape the future of our city, and it’s a reminder to all of us to keep listening to, encouraging, and supporting our young people,” he said.

“What stands out most is that every one of these recipients is leading not because they have to, but because they care.

“That kind of contribution speaks to the heart of who we are as a community — it’s what makes Kalgoorlie-Boulder a special place to live.”

This year, the winner of the Youth Precinct Art Competition was also announced, with Mikaela Betts announced as the winning artist.

Mikaela’s artwork captures the spirit of connection and community among young people, reflecting her vision of a vibrant and inclusive space.

As part of her prize, Mikaela will now take part in a mentorship program to help guide the installation of her artwork at the Kingsbury Park Youth Precinct.