Young achievers honoured during SA Youth Week
Published on 15 April 2025
Onkaparinga’s inspiring young achievers were honoured last night during the council’s annual Youth Recognition Awards, presented during SA Youth Week.
Six young people and a passionate youth worker were named recipients of the six awards (one award had dual winners), including the inaugural winner of the Neporendi Deadly Achievers Award, which celebrates a school-aged person making an impact through their contribution to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island culture, community or Country. See the full list below.
The awards ceremony – presented and hosted by the Onkaparinga Youth Committee – was held at the Port Noarlunga Arts Centre.
It was the second SA Youth Week event hosted by the council following last week’s Wardli Block Party event in Christie Downs, which received a 2025 Department of Human Services Youth Week grant.
SA Youth Week (9–17 April) is SA’s biggest celebration of young people aged 12 to 25, supported by the Department of Human Services and featuring a wide range of events and activities created by and for young people.
Without further ado, get to know this year’s City of Onkaparinga Youth Recognition Award recipients below!
Tanaya Antony and Ava Jones (tied) – Business, Employment and Social Enterprise Award
Less than a year ago, Nays Art was just an idea, and Tanaya Antony – a proud Narungga artist – was selling their art for the first time at a Closing the Gap event in March 2024. Now, they’ve built a thriving business, recently collaborating with Sportsgirl and headspace to design a tote bag featuring Proud Love, celebrating love in the queer, POC community. Tanaya has showcased their work during SALA Festival, secured public art commissions, and continues to advocate.
Ava Jones, at just 11 years old, has successfully created her own clothing brand, showcasing her passion for fashion and entrepreneurship. Through her strong social media presence on Instagram, she has built a loyal following and generated online sales, establishing a brand that reflects her creativity and dedication. Her achievement shows remarkable business acumen at a young age, inspiring other young entrepreneurs.
Wade Silk – Contributions to Community Award
Wade is actively involved in the school community through his role as house leader, coffee cart volunteer, international ambassador and buddy for the student exchange program, peer support leader and member of the school band. He recently won a scholarship to Japan for a study tour. Wade volunteers at the Reynella Neighbourhood Centre helping to support programs and markets. He’s also a youth ambassador for the Art Gallery of South Australia’s Neo program where he volunteers to plan and support youth events.
Archer Christmas – Learning Success Award
“Archie” has worked tirelessly to establish his own soccer coaching business, developing the processes needed for success. He has excelled in both business development and his coaching skills. Archie currently coaches for the Roger Rasheed Sports Foundation Inclusive Soccer program, where his support and guidance have been highly praised by participants and parents alike. His passion for learning and mentoring others make him a standout young leader.
Jack Harrison – Personal Achievement Award
In 2021, Jack’s future was uncertain. His father had passed away and his mum was struggling with five kids. School was challenging and he was going down the wrong path. In 2022, he moved to Adelaide. Being in a safe and supportive environment allowed him to find his passion and explore opportunities. He joined a football team and became a respected umpire. During The Advertiser’s Teen Parliament 2025, his powerful speech about child protection sparked an outpouring of hope, inspired conversations and earned him a $10,000 scholarship.
Barb Bayly – Youth Worker of the Year Award
Barb has worked with kids and youth for more than 20 years, serving in both employee and volunteer roles. She has tirelessly dedicated her life to see youth learn through teaching, listening and being genuine in her care for them. She has served more than 1,000 kids during this time including serving at youth group on Friday nights and working in a Sunday school program (so giving up a large portion of her weekend) to see kids have better community and grow as human beings into better people.
Marley Ware – Neporendi Deadly Achievers Award
Marley is an ex-Woodcroft Primary School student and is returning as an Aboriginal artist to work with current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to create a mural for the school. With extensive connection to culture and family, Marley has a wealth of knowledge to share with current students, and a love of art to inspire younger artists. Marley is working with the Aboriginal community education officer, staff and students to raise cultural awareness and pride within the school, leaving a lasting piece of art for all students to enjoy.
Pictured
Top to bottom: Business, Employment and Social Enterprise winners, Ava Jones and Tanaya Antony alongside Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were; Contributions to Community Award winner, Wade Silk; Learning Success Award winner, Archer Christmas; Jack Harrison, Personal Achievement Award winner; Youth Worker of the Year, Barb Bayly; Ann, the grandmother of Neporendi Deadly Achievers Award winner, Marley Ware, accepts the award in Marley's absence (on holiday); the Onkaparinga Youth Committee. All photos (except Wade's) by Paul Bartlett.