Deakin Young Influencer Award

We congratulate Irene K. from Sacred Heart Girls College Oakleigh on being chosen as the recipient of the 2025 Deakin Young Influencer Award. This award is open to all Year 11 students, and Irene was selected as the school’s winner, which is an incredible achievement.

The Deakin Young Influencer Award recognises excellence and celebrates students who are truly motivated to make a positive difference in the world, now and into the future. Deakin strongly believes in acknowledging outstanding students who embody our values of Community Leadership, Change Advocacy and Progressive Thinking. The University has rewarded Irene’s efforts and achievements with a $5000 scholarship to support her first year of study at Deakin in 2027.

Irene has demonstrated outstanding commitment to her community through volunteering with St Vincent de Paul, organising fundraising and awareness initiatives, and supporting vulnerable people experiencing disadvantage or homelessness. She has also mentored and judged younger students through Tournament of Minds, fostering creativity, collaboration and confidence. Through her leadership roles, advocacy work and proactive problem-solving; Irene exemplifies Deakin’s values of Community Leadership, Change Advocacy and Progressive Thinking, making a meaningful and lasting impact on her school and wider community.

Congratulations, Irene! We wish you all the best and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.

Deakin Young Influencer Award Team