Congratulations to all the Rotary Melbourne Young Achievers for 2026!

We congratulate the 2026 Rotary Melbourne Young Achievers, Mahsa Nabizada, Jack Benci, Joel Moffet and Mary Nguyen.

These outstanding young leaders are driving meaningful impact in their communities and future fields through their commitment, service, and leadership.

Left to right: Professor Mimmie Watts, Rotary Melbourne President Philip Cornish, Nick Pearce (Co-Founder - Homie), Mary Nguyen (Rotary YAA Encouragement Awardee), Jack Benci (Rotary YAA Recipient)

Celebrating Emerging Talent

The 2026 Emerging Talent and Future Impact Award recognises individuals demonstrating exceptional promise, initiative, and leadership early in their journey. This year, the award was presented to Mary Nguyen and is proudly sponsored by Untapped.

Mary is an emerging young leader who has already demonstrated remarkable initiative, maturity, and potential. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Melbourne, majoring in Finance and Economics.

Her journey reflects a deep commitment to learning, leadership, and personal growth. Mary has participated in the I-LEAD Japan Global Innovation, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Immersion Program, gained valuable experience through an internship with education technology start-up StickyTek, and contributed to learning design research at the University of Melbourne, including work exploring generative AI and the transition of students into tertiary education.

Beyond her academic and professional pursuits, Mary has shown strong dedication to community engagement. She has contributed through volunteering and youth initiatives, including the NGV Teen Council, and has actively participated in service activities that support and inspire others. Her experience as a Western Chances scholarship recipient further highlights her resilience, determination, and commitment to creating opportunities for the future.

Left to right: Carolyn Burr (Managing Partner - Untapped and Rotary Melbourne member), Mary Nguyen (Rotary YAA Encouragement Awardee), Marnie Long (Careers & Employability Manager - University of Melbourne)

Supporting Future Impact

A special day run by Rotary Melbourne supports the next generation of leaders through partnerships such as the Rotary Young Achievers Awards. By recognising and investing in emerging talent like Mary, we continue to champion inclusive pathways, real-world learning, and meaningful career opportunities for young people.

We were also privileged to hear from Nick Pearce, Co-Founder of Homie, 2026 Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) recipient, and a former YAA recipient, who spoke at the event and shared insights into his inspiring work.

We congratulate all awardees on their well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make.