2024 Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award Winner
We are thrilled to announce Talei Whiteside as the 2024 Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award recipient!
Talei is a shining light in our community, embodying selflessness, leadership, and dedication. Her remarkable contributions have left an indelible impact, and we are privileged to recognise her efforts with this prestigious award.
Nominated by Kate Feagan, Year Level Leader at Upper Yarra Secondary College, Talei exemplifies the qualities of a role model. Despite the demands of Year 12, she balanced her role as School Captain with an unwavering commitment to supporting others.
Talei’s Outstanding Contributions
- Upper Yarra Secondary College: Year Level Captain, School Captain.
- Gladysdale Primary School: Designed and created Grade 6 uniforms after uniform supplies were destroyed; served as photographer and website publisher; assisted with relocating the Art Room.
- Christian Youth Camp: Volunteered during most school holidays.
- Warburton Anglican Church: Operates the Tech Desk fortnightly, ensuring seamless connections for online participants.
A Word from Talei
“Thank you so much; I am incredibly honoured to receive the Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award. When I first received the call from June, I felt overwhelmed with shock, excitement, and gratitude. This recognition means so much to me, as it highlights the incredible support system I’ve had throughout my life.
I want to thank Bendigo Bank Warburton and Yarra Junction for valuing students and providing platforms like this to encourage us to keep striving.”
About the Award
The Ian De La Rue Youth Initiative Award is an annual recognition made possible by the generous support of the Bendigo Bank Community Bank Warburton and Community Bank Yarra Junction, as part of Upper Yarra Community Enterprise Ltd.
Nominations open in October. For more information on the award and previous recipients, visit the Youth page on our website.
