No one does the glitz and glam better than the Gold Coast and this year’s Student Excellence Awards were no different.
A student who voices a beloved character in Bluey and another who empowers non-verbal Australians with innovative communication solutions are among the remarkable winners of this year’s Student Excellence Awards.
The awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding contributions by students of the Gold Coast in the categories of diversity, creative arts, sports & wellness, environmental protection, entrepreneurship & innovation, and community support.
The ceremony, held at HOTA, Home of the Arts late last week, recognised and celebrated all 18 finalists at the gala event for their exceptional contributions, dedication, leadership, and commitment to making a difference on the Gold Coast and beyond.
Jennine Tax, Executive Director Education at Experience Gold Coast said, “The Gold Coast is immensely proud of these inspiring young leaders. They’ve not only excelled academically but have shown resilience, creativity, and an admirable dedication to community building. Their contributions enhance the cultural richness and innovation of our region, and we are excited to see where their journey will take them.”
The 2024 categories and winners are:
Excellence in Championing Diversity
Max Dumbrell, TAFE Queensland Gold Coast and Griffith University
Max is a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion and has shown outstanding leadership within the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2020, they founded Griffith Equality, creating a safe, supportive group for LGBTQIA+ students. Currently, as Community Projects Assistant and LGBTQIA+ Safe Space Facilitator at their Student Guild.
Excellence in Promoting Sport and Wellness
Cameron Dalton, Bond University
Cameron served as Vice-President for Sport with the Bond University Student Association and was a key member of the 2024 UniSport Student Advisory Group. Cameron has earned the respect and admiration of her peers and faculty alike for her ability to connect with students and amplify their voices in sport.
Excellence in Fostering Creative Arts
Charlette Stent, Benowa State High School and Auora Training Institute
Having been involved in the screen industry from a young age, Charlotte is a passionate advocate for the creative arts. She has featured in multiple film and television productions and provides the voice for two characters in hit kids series ‘Bluey’.
Excellence in Protecting our Environment
Jessamine Faith Molate, Griffith University
Jessamine advocates for sustainable practices As project lead at the 2024 Logan Eco Action Festival and a committee member for the Griffith Planetary Health Club and a Green Impact student auditor for the Australasian Campuses Towards Sustainability Jessamine advocates for sustainable practices and creates opportunities to share innovative ideas about environmental conservation.
Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Annie Rogers, St Andrews Lutheran College
Annie is the creator of My Voice: Bluetooth Speaker Necklace and is pursuing its development in hopes it will change the lives for non-verbal Australians. She is the winner of the Next Gen National Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 and the 2024 Edstart Achievement Award.
Excellence in Community and Peer Support
Kelly Johanna Lizarazo Pimiento, Southern Cross University
Kelly’s contributions to cultural preservation and peer support exemplify her commitment to the Gold Coast community. As a Master of Social Work student, Kelly balances her studies with impactful leadership and volunteer roles across many organisations including Volunteering Gold Coast, Connect2Home and HolaKidsGC.
The Koala Congratulates the winners, finalists, and Experience Gold Coast for hosting the initiative.
