The City of Armadale's Community Development Officer – Youth, has scooped a prestigious award at the 2018 National Awards for Local Government.
Ashleigh Tapper won the award in the Next Gen Local Government Leader category, recognising her passion and vested interest in human rights, working with communities to seek sustainable transformations, achieving positive outcomes and changing lives and futures for local young people in the Armadale region.
City of Armadale CEO Ray Tame said the award recognises Ashleigh's excellence in leadership and mentoring and her contribution to young people in the Armadale community.
“It's no surprise to me that one of our young leaders has been recognised in this way.
“When an outstanding young person such as Ashleigh is recognised it reflects well on both our organisation and our City.
“Ashleigh has given credit to her co-workers but the community should be proud that once again Armadale is leading the way.
“Ashleigh is recognised by her peers, stakeholders and program partners for her skill at empowering and collaborating, particularly in her work with the Armadale Youth Network.
“Armadale has the third fastest growing population in the State and it is important that our young people are given every opportunity to succeed.
“Engaging with young people and key youth organisations on programs such as Armadale Aspire, Perfect Imperfections and Kinetic, Ashleigh has helped young people achieve goals beyond what they thought possible.
“We congratulate Ashleigh on her outstanding efforts and commitment to the youth of the district,” he said.
Having also grown up in the City of Armadale, Ashleigh hopes this National recognition will encourage other young people in the City of Armadale to aspire to brighter futures.
“As a society and as communities we should not build glass ceilings or limitations on what a young person will or won't achieve; or create cultures of shame or stereotyping based on where someone comes from, their culture, or their demographic background. Instead, it is our role to speak to young people about their potential, and furthermore provide them opportunities to develop this potential - and, at every point, encourage the wild possibilities each of their lives hold.
"It is a privilege and very rewarding to work in a role that gives me a platform to give a voice to those who are often not seen or heard; and it is my responsibility to make the most of that platform by focusing on the possibilities and potential that these young people have and not the problems."
"I have never before known people with such heart and drive to make change and lift the lives of others as the many organisations, youth workers and people working for young people in Armadale. They are the community leaders deserving of recognition, and it is my privilege to work with, and for them," Ashleigh said.
The Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly Dinner will be held in Canberra on Tuesday 19 June, where the category winners will be presented their awards and the overall winner of the 2018 National Award for Excellence in Local Government (chosen from the category winners) will be announced.
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