Outstanding young people of Kwinana recognised

The talent, strength and leadership of Kwinana’s youth was celebrated last Wednesday night with a number of awards given to those who have excelled within the community.

The LyriK (Leadership, youth respect in Kwinana) Youth Awards were hosted at the Koorliny Arts Centre and offered the young people of Kwinana the opportunity to be publicly recognised for their positive contributions to society.

City of Kwinana Mayor Carol Adams said the LyriK program helped to develop a positive youth culture.

“It is important to recognise young people when they excel, to enhance their sense of pride and encourage them to keep up the good work,” she said.

Individuals were nominated by members of the community in six categories including respect, leadership, inspiration, achievement, teamwork and mateship.

Ms Adams presented the Young Person of the Year Award to'''''' Teece Ninyette who rose above many personal challenges including the death of her mother when she was just 13.

Last year she reconnected with her brother, obtained her driver’s licence, moved into her own rental home while still at school and has taken on full-time care of her 16-year-old brother.

The mayor was also on hand to present the Achievement Award to Kai Donaldson who overcame early learning differences to obtain entry to John Curtin College of the Arts’ Gifted and Talented program.

Among other winners was Shaquille Walker who received the Inspiration Award for his ability to inspire others through his direction of the Dance Hip Hop K-Style program in Kwinana.