Finalists-Freemasons of NSW & ACT Community Service Award
30 April 24
The bios of the four finalists are below - Congratulations.
Bella Merlino exemplifies compassion and activism. In 2020, Bella became the driving force behind Mind Games for Dementia, a board-playing marathon held for 48 hours. In 2024, she is organising the Walk for a Cause, a relay extending over 12 hours, to raise awareness and funds for charities and causes. Her fundraising efforts have been record breaking and recognised by the Australian Book of Records. Bella has been recognised with accolades such as the 2021 Order of Australia Association Youth Community Award, the 2022 Strathfield Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year. Her documentary, “Dementia,” has won 23 international student film festivals.
Daniel Su of Hurstville is a passionate community leader. Daniel is the Founder of Help Elevate Youth (HEY), a youth-led organisation that provides support and basic living necessities to homeless people. At HEY, he leads 25 volunteers in fundraising $1000+, having distributed 60+ care packages to homeless communities. Daniel was also Chairman of the Sydney Boys Community Services Committee, having organised 15 successful fundraising events and raising $40k in 2023 alone. His commitment to social impact earned him the prestigious Georges River Council 2024 Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year Award. Daniel is uplifting others and fostering engagement through altruism.
Matilda Constable-Webb of the Newcastle and Hunter area is leveraging her lived experience to champion change in domestic violence and sexual violence prevention. From survivor support programs to legal reform advocacy, she embodies resilience and determination. Matilda wrote “My Super Power,” a children’s book aimed at addressing child abuse at an age-appropriate level. Despite facing significant personal challenges, including homelessness and abuse, Matilda's journey serves as an inspiration to survivors and advocates. Her multifaceted approach to tackling societal issues reflects her unwavering dedication to creating a safer, more just world for all. She currently studies law and social work while working full-time and caring for her two young children.
Yasmin Jimmieson of Muswellbrook and Armidale has unwavering dedication to volunteering. Yasmin is a member of the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), where she has performed leadership roles such as Deputy Unit Commander. She is currently employed as a Flood Rescue Operations Officer with the SES. Yasmin is an instructor with the Australian Air Force Cadets, performing the Training Officer role. Despite encountering ageism and sexism, Yasmin's resilience and determination has seen her rise above challenges, becoming an inspiration to others. Her passion for personal and professional development, positive attitude and her academic pursuits make her a shining example of youth empowerment and community service.
From Freemasons NSW & ACT, we congratulate Bella, Daniel, Matilda and Yasmin on their dedication and leadership in their respective communities and on being finalists in the 7News Young Achiever Awards - Freemasons of NSW/ACT Community Service Award. Good luck to you all!