Catholic school students win citizenship awards
Schools
Three Year 12 students from Catholic colleges have received 2021 Student Citizenship Awards in recognition of their voluntary service both at their school and in the community.
At a special ceremony at Government House on November 29, the 10 winners from around South Australia were presented their awards by Governor of South Australia, the Hon. Frances Adamson AC.
Awarded annually by the SA Branch of the Order of Australia Association, the awards recognise Year 11 and 12 students, who must be nominated by their school, for their contribution through voluntary service to their school/and or general community. The winners exemplify the Association’s objective ‘to foster love of and pride in Australian citizenship’.
Kanika Singla at the Government House ceremony.
Catholic school recipients this year were Kanika Singla from Mount Carmel College, Jayden Gale and Jordan Zorzi, both from Rostrevor College.
The 2021 captain at Mount Carmel College, Kanika was nominated by director of Students, Suzanne Sullivan, for the ‘exceptional’ way in which she undertook all aspects of her leadership role, including her active involvement with mentoring younger students.
Kanika was instrumental in establishing a breakfast club this year, as she discovered several students were coming to school hungry. Kanika worked in collaboration with the Year 12 coordinator to access food from FoodBank, set up the food and drinks and equipment in the morning, serve at the club and clean-up afterwards.
“Kanika is an outstanding leader in the way she works with her peers and facilitates initiatives that benefit the community,” said Suzanne.
“She is a team player who ensures that all voices are heard, and feel valued, with a deep commitment to supporting the Catholic ethos and Josephite charism of the college.”
As Head Boarder at Rostrevor College, Jayden has supported and mentored younger students.
His ‘Men’s Chat’ initiative – which encourages students to speak openly about their worries and challenges in a comfortable and informal setting – has benefited many boarders during difficult times away from their families.
“Jayden has worked tirelessly with some of our younger students at risk,” said Rostrevor House leader Belinda DeConno.
“He offers them support with their school work and checks in on them to help keep them on the straight and narrow.”
Jayden has also been a driving force in getting students involved in the Hutt St Centre’s Walk a Mile fundraiser.
Talented musician Jordan was nominated for the citizenship award for his efforts in providing musical guidance to fellow students. He also volunteers his time as an after-school Homework Club mentor to several primary and secondary students. A strong advocate for men’s mental health initiatives, Jordan was heavily involved in the college’s Blue Week.
“Jordan is a great role model and actively encourages younger people to get involved in making a difference by learning about social inequality and environmental issues, and getting involved in social justice campaigns,” said Rostrevor House leader Lee-Anne Genner.
“His empathy for others and his ability to recognise, acknowledge and act upon the needs of others is outstanding for such a young man.”
The award-winning students received an inscribed plaque and certificate signed by the Governor. Chairman of the SA branch of the Order of Australia Association, Tony Metcalf OAM, joined with all association members in congratulating the recipients.
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