Young Victorians making a positive difference in their schools and communities while excelling in their VCE studies have been recognised today at the annual VCE Leadership Awards
Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll congratulated the eight award winners - selected from government, Catholic and independent schools across the state - for their community service and outstanding achievements as advocates and innovators.
Overall VCE Leader of the Year, Thomas Maguire-Nguyen from Salesian College in Chadstone, established a public speaking and debating organisation that has grown from 10 volunteers to more than 120 this year while also contributing to local council decision-making and fundraising for community organisations.
Frankston High School in Melbourne's south east had two students recognised at the awards including school captain Blake Alford-Ryan, who led student-driven reform of the school's uniform policy, and Tyra Loielo, a tireless advocate for increased support for women affected by domestic violence.
Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor presented the awards at a ceremony in Melbourne, attended by their families and special guests.
Now in its 28th year, the awards were expanded in 2024 to recognise students pursuing vocational pathways, following the introduction of the VCE Vocational Major.
Applications were accepted by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), with finalists chosen by a dedicated panel, which assessed them on their achievements, exemplary leadership and innovative community work.
More information about the awards and recipients is available on the VCAA website.
As stated by Minister for Education Ben Carroll
"These outstanding young Victorians prove that leadership isn't defined by age, but by action - whether its advocating for equality, serving their community, or tackling some of societies biggest challenges."
"Our investments in education and senior secondary reforms are supporting students to follow their passions to get the skills they need for rewarding careers."
As stated by Parliamentary Secretary for Education Nina Taylor
"I congratulate all of our 2025 VCE Leadership Awards recipients, as well as the teachers and families that have supported them to help make the world a better place."
As stated by VCAA CEO Andrew Smith
"The VCAA is proud to support these awards to highlight the wonderful work being done in our schools to develop our state's next generation of leaders."
