On Sunday 12^th February, Year 11 students Lynn Chia and Jamila Mezensoff participated in the Lions Youth of the Year competition, hosted by the Sunshine Lions Club. The event celebrates achievements in academics, sport, culture and leadership

The competition involved a rigorous application and interview process which culminated in a public speaking event. Jamila and Lynn responded to impromptu questions on who should replace Queen Elizabeth II on the $5 note and the significance of International Women’s Day, after which Lynn spoke on the challenges faced by youth in making life decisions and Jamila delivered an emotional monologue on the erasure of Uyghur people and culture. The judges were highly impressed by the calibre of the contestants. Lynn Chia was given the Public Speaking Award, and Jamila Mezensoff was awarded the overall Youth of the Year prize. Jamila will move onto the Region Finals in Corio.