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EEC Inaugural Youth Leadership Awards

The Ethnic Communities' Council of New South Wales Inaugural Youth Leadership Awards ceremony was held at Darling Harbour in Sydney on October 22.

The Ethnic Communities Council (ECC) of NSW is a non-government peak body which actively promotes the principles of multiculturalism, and lobbies for the development of a culturally inclusive society. This year marked the founding of a great initiative, to bring to the forefront, the valued contribution and excellence of Australia's culturally and linguistically diverse youth in the areas of community service and development, sports, arts and the environment.

Migrants and refugees have contributed significantly to the development and growth of this nation. Many of the younger generations in particular have been, are, and will be integral to Australia's future. They offer insight, understanding and at times, represent a unique form of hybridism that allows them to be cultural negotiators. The awards proudly affirmed and encouraged the vast and varied potential of this dynamic group of Australians.

The finalists, young people from many different communities and backgrounds, included high school students who made the following comments:

Brett-James, James Ruse Agricultural High School
Leaders must lead from the front by example and not from the rear by direction...Multiculturalism only works if it is a two-way street...If (young Australian people) sacrifice their personal values, such as their diversity...they promote ignorance and pave the way for a racist society once again.

Miguel, Casula High School
Leadership to me means taking on the role of guiding people towards a certain goal, whether it be a group or just one person. Never give up your culture and language because this makes us all unique.

Chantel, Liverpool Girls High School
Leadership is about assisting others in any way within my power as an individual...I am the first in my family to be doing the HSC and I am doing it on my own and for myself...things may be hard to achieve at first, but if you have a firm belief in your own ability, you can achieve any dream you may have.

Shama, Liverpool Girls' High School
My vision for Australia is a reduction in growing threats such as land clearing, irrigation developments, over fishing and poor land management...Get involved in community activities as much as possible and try to save the planet by not neglecting it.

Sue, Kingsgrove North High School
The Samoan way of life teaches you respect, knowledge and discipline. Believe in yourself and your success will come from within.

Richard, Sydney Technical High School
Being at the crossroads of two cultures is a part of my life. People can recognise me as Asian because of my skin and unlike before, I am now proud to show it like a flag and announce my ethnicity to the world. It is a gift, don't let anyone convince you it isn't, but it is up to you to make the most of it.

For more information : Visit the Ethnic Communities' Council website.