The Award for Leadership in Languages and Cultures recognises outstanding young people who have demonstrated leadership and commitment to advocacy for a multilingual and culturally diverse Australia.
This Award is provided by the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, The Honourable Blair Boyer MP, through the Multicultural Education and Languages Committee (MELC) and administered by the Australia Day Council of South Australia.
Award for Leadership in Languages and Cultures Category 1: High School Student – Recipient
Anton Slobodian
Anton Slobodian, a Year 12 Prefect and 2025 graduate of Blackfriars Priory School, demonstrates leadership grounded in empathy and linguistic awareness. Fluent in Ukrainian, advanced in Japanese and highly proficient in English, he uses language to build trust and connection. Anton has supported newly arrived Ukrainian refugees and welcomed international students, fostering cultural inclusion within and beyond the school community. His leadership reflects humility, integrity and purpose. As he affirms, “Language is the beginning of empathy.”
Award for Leadership in Languages and Cultures Category 1: High School Student – Commendation
Serena Xiao
Serena Xiao is a multilingual student whose passion for languages reflects a deep respect for cultural diversity. A native Mandarin speaker fluent in English, she is also studying Italian, Japanese and French. Serena actively contributes to multicultural festivals and volunteers as a translator at Beach Safety Events, supporting culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Through respectful communication and initiative, she strengthens intercultural understanding and demonstrates a genuine commitment to unity through diversity.
Award for Leadership in Languages and Culture Category 2: Young Person under 24 – Joint Recipients
Nazdana Hussaini
Nazdana Hussaini arrived in Australia as a refugee at age 12 and has since emerged as a dedicated advocate for young migrants and refugees. As President of the (AATSA), she mentors students and supports their education and career pathways. Currently studying Law and International Relations, Nazdana promotes justice and belonging through community engagement, girls’ sports programs and academic support initiatives. Her multilingual communication skills enable her to connect across cultures with empathy and leadership.
Melih Aslan
Melih Aslan is a proud Turkish Australian who is Bilingual in English and Turkish and studying Arabic. Melih is currently studying to become a teacher. and is actively engaged in community outreach promoting language and student wellbeing. In 2024, he participated in a volunteer teaching program in Aceh, Indonesia, teaching English and leading an orphanage support project that raised over $70,000in partnership with the Australian Relief Organisation. Melih communicates with clarity and cultural sensitivity, strengthening social cohesion across diverse communities.