After receiving six independent nominations, the decision to name Belle Cardew as the LYRiK Young Person of the Year was a unanimous decision by the assessment panel.
Mayor Carol Adams said Miss Cardew exemplified leadership and respect as a young person in Kwinana, through both her character and her actions.
“She is actively involved in her community including being a member of her school council for the second year running, and is part of the Kwinana Youth Advisory Council, as well as being involved with the Wellard Village People Town Team and a member of her school basketball team,” Mayor Adams said.
“Belle contributed to a monthly Gift and Take market over the summer in Wellard, assisted in the organization of the Clean Up Australia Day event and was a key player in the recent Wellard 7 Day Makeover project, clocking up 72 volunteering hours.
“People have said they find Belle’s ability to bring people together inspiring, she is a natural leader who is able to motivate others to get involved in community projects,” she said.
Many exciting changes were made to the Awards this year, with new categories aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Also included, for the first time, was a presentation to recognise the mentees and mentors involved in this year’s new LYRiK Scholarships program for young people aged 16 to 24 years with specific education or employment goals.
“Special thanks to our sponsors Alcoa and Coogee whose continued support of these awards is so appreciated,” Mayor Adams said.
This is the 17th year of the LYRiK Awards, which started in 2006, and LYRiK stands for Leadership, Youth and Respect in Kwinana.
LYRiK Awards 2023 winners
Achievement in Career or Education Progression Award: Tsharntai Baker and the Gilmore Green Robotics Club
Community Inspiration Award: Kwinana Youth Advisory Council, Riley Leaker and Takunda Bere
Leadership Award: Ryan Rawlinson, Stephanie Beaumont and Jason Gonsalves
Social Justice Advocate Award: Service Learning Group at Peter Carnley Anglican Community School
Achievement in Sport and Recreation Award: Harry Gordon, Kaytee Bogaers and Allayna Engel
Personal Development Award: Kye Ryan
Young Person of the Year Award: Belle Cardew.