A Burnside teenager has been nominated for a 2024 7NEWS Young Achiever Award for her contributions to fostering a sense of community in Melton and Brimbank.
Neerja Singh is nominated for the Spirit Super Connecting Communities Award, which celebrates young individuals who are driving grass-roots, ’real life’ initiatives that demonstrate genuine involvement, long-term value and add to the life of their community.
Throughout her teens, Ms Singh has worked with a range of youth leadership organisations in her community, including through Melton and Brimbank councils’ Youth Advisory Committees, Headspace, Western Health, Strive Health and Lakeview Senior College.
Standout achievements in her community work include her involvement in the Headspace forum, where she collaborated with others to increase mental health literacy for both adults and young people, and helping organise major annual forums and initiating the Social Connectivity Competition while on the Melton Council Youth Advisory Committee.
Out of all her achievements, Ms Singh said she’s proudest of the personal changes she’s made.
“Now I embrace new experiences, have a love for working in groups and running projects, and have a dedication to growing as a person,” she said.
“A significant driving force for me lies in being able to pursue my passions, the ability to advocate for the things that resonate with me. But at the same time, it’s about turning those passions into real change…
“Receiving a nomination is truly a wonderful and fulfilling experience. For me it serves as a powerful motivator, inspiring me to strive even harder to continue to try to make a meaningful impact within my community.”
Finalists will be announced on March 27, and winners will be announced in June.
