Lions Youth of the Year

Encouraging Leadership and Excellence

Each year, the North Beach Lions Club proudly participates in the Lions Youth of the Year program — a flagship national initiative of Lions Australia that celebrates the leadership, community spirit, and personal achievement of young Australians who are about to embark on their adult lives.

It provides students in years 10-12 the opportunity to challenge themselves, gain important experience and build confidence, while being recognised for their academic, sporting, cultural, and community involvement.

Our Club’s Role

The North Beach Lions Club hosts a local Youth of the Year judging event each year, bringing together students from local secondary schools. Our members coordinate and support the process — from inviting schools and students to participate, to organising judging panels, interviews, and a presentation event to celebrate the participants’ achievements.

The winners of our local competition progress through to regional, state, and national finals, representing both their schools and our community on a broader stage. Our club takes great pride in recognising the exceptional young people who participate and in supporting their journey in the competition.

The Competition Process

Participants are assessed on a range of qualities that reflect well-rounded personal development, including:

• Academic and community involvement

• Public speaking and communication skills

• Leadership potential

• General knowledge and awareness of current affairs

The program includes both an interview with the judging panel and a public speaking component, where each participant delivers a prepared speech and answers impromptu questions — a rewarding challenge that builds valuable life skills.

Benefits for Participants

Students who take part in Lions Youth of the Year gain much more than awards or recognition. They develop:

• Greater self-confidence and resilience

• Improved public speaking and interview skills

• A deeper understanding of leadership and service

• Connections with community mentors and peers who share their values

Many participants describe the experience as one of the most memorable and empowering of their school years.