Leadership leads to Youth Award

He is only 16-years-old, but Mustafa Syed has proven age is no barrier.

The Year 12 Picnic Point High student has set his sights on law and politics after school, having 

already made a positive impact in the community.

The Vice-Captain, who is championing a litter program in his school and is a part of a local Future 

Youth Leadership Program, can now add award winner to his list of achievements.

Yesterday, Mustafa was announced as the recipient of a Canterbury-Bankstown Youth Award, in the 

leadership category.

“This has just motivated me more to connect with other like-minded people, so we can make a bigger 

difference,” Mustafa said.

“There are so many great youth out there trying to make a positive impact on the community, so to 

be recognised for what I’ve done is a great feeling and I’m very appreciative.”

Topical issues Mustafa aims to tackle include racism, discrimination and youth homelessness.

“I am working really hard to try and understand these issues and come up with solutions on how to 

help more in our local community,” Mustafa said.

“It’s never too late to want to be someone who enacts change. Anyone can make a change if they want 

to.”

Mayor Khal Asfour said Mustafa’s drive and determination is an inspiration to other youth.

“For someone so young, Mustafa has an incredible amount of enthusiasm and leadership qualities,” 

Mayor Asfour said.

“We have many other outstanding young people like Mustafa in our City, which is why it’s important 

we recognise them and their achievements through our annual Youth Awards.”​

The 2018 Canterbury-Bankstown Youth Awards winners are:

Lucky Zhan and Victoria Fozzard, also received an All-rounder Award this year.