The call is out for applications to the Mayoral Youth Community Awards, which recognise young people who are delivering outstanding contributions to the community. Formerly known as the Young Achiever Awards, the revised format provides an opportunity to recognise those improving the social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing of their communities and their contribution to civic life.

Mayor Dr Victor Luca says the awards are an excellent way to acknowledge rangatahi who are going above and beyond to better the lives of others.

“We believe these awards open a new pathway for youth to explore how their talents and aspirations can contribute to community life,” Mayor Luca explains. “It’s hoped that it will inspire them and their peers to be future leaders of their communities, and in local government.”

Categories include community service, arts and culture, leadership, environment and science and technology. Nominations for the awards include strict eligibility criteria and successful candidates will be selected by a panel of Council and sponsor representatives.

Students must be nominated by their schools or clubs, and the application needs to include the nominees’ goals and achievements that align with the relevant category. Achievements can be at local, regional or national level. Nominees have to be year nine to 13, live in the Whakatāne District or attend a school in the area.

The awards are supported by Whakatāne District Council, Whakatāne Rotary Club, Whakatāne-Ōhope Community Board, Rangitāiki Community Board and others.

The invitation-only Mayoral Awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, 21 October 2023 at Whakatāne District Council. 

“I’m looking forward to reviewing the applications and seeing what incredible successes our young people are achieving,” Mayor Luca says. “The awards are always inspiring to everyone involved.”

Find out more information about the awards, including nomination forms.