Wyndham’s Young Person Of The Month – January

Wyndham City is proud to announce Libby Knights as the One Wyndham recipient for January.

Libby’s dedication and commitment to raising awareness of the challenges faced by people with intellectual disability, and teaching students with intellectual disability, shows her passion for supporting diverse learners and breaking down barriers in education.

Libby advocates and fosters learning environments where every student, regardless of their abilities, has access to equitable opportunities to learn and grow. 

She empowers individuals living with disability to develop skills, confidence, and independence to participate in community activities.  

She also actively engages in community outreach initiatives and collaborates with organisations to promote understanding of differences and equal opportunity.

An inspiring swim teacher at a local pool, Libby is passionate about imparting the importance of swimming skills and teaches swimming to a diverse range of students, including adults, children, infants, and young people with intellectual and physical disabilities.

Libby’s commitment goes beyond teaching in the classroom and swimming skills. 

Her leadership in various programs reflects her commitment to making a difference in her community. Participating in events like “Run For The Herd” and “Walk For Autism” demonstrates Libby’s proactive approach to raising funds and awareness for important causes. 

Libby was also a leader for the Western Bulldogs Youth Leadership Program and Young Men’s Health.

Her dedication to mental health awareness and advocacy for gender equality in STEM through the IT@Work program is inspiring, and Libby recently competed in the Singapore International Science Competition, representing her school in an all-female team. 

She also won the National Junior Future Problem Solving Program Writing Competition and represented Australia in the International Finals. 

Libby is also a Western Regional AFL umpire, further promoting gender equality and encouraging other females to take up umpiring. 

Over the holiday season, Libby helps vulnerable and rough sleepers; organising entertainment, and creating an atmosphere of inclusion during a time when many can feel isolated, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Wyndham City Mayor, Cr Mia Shaw, said: “Libby is an inspiring, dedicated individual who gives so much to others and makes a positive impact in the Wyndham community.”

“Wyndham City thanks Libby for her contribution through teaching in the classroom and swimming pool and for advocacy efforts to improve equity in education.” 

One Wyndham recipients are residents aged between 12 to 25 who positively contribute to the Wyndham community and are role models to other young people.

Each month Council selects a Wyndham resident to be awarded the ‘Young Person of the Month’.

Winners are awarded a $300 gift voucher of their choice and other prizes. 

For more information about Youth Services One Wyndham Project, go to: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/youth-services/awards-competitions/one-wyndham