On Monday 21 July the Australia Day Council of SA proudly brought together, young changemakers from across South Australia at LG House for the inaugural ‘Where to From Here?’ – Empowering Young Citizens Forum.

Over 50 Young Citizens of the Year recipients from member Councils across South Australia, and local leaders, came together to build a robust new network of emerging civic contributors – young people already making a difference and ready to grow their impact.

Participants explored tools for community engagement and leadership strategies and identified the most pressing issues facing young South Australians, including climate action, mental health, youth voice, and participation.

The evening commenced with insights from 2024 SA Young Australian of the Year Tiahni Adamson.

Other speakers included Kylan Beech (2024 SA Young Citizen of the Year), Denzel James (2025 SA Young Australian of the Year finalist), Meredith Evans (2024 SA Senior Australian of the Year), Georgia McDonnell, (2024 Adelaide Hills Young Citizen of the Year) and human rights advocate Behishta Anwar FGLF.

Interactive workshops addressed youth-identified priorities, driving the co-creation of actionable goals to lay the groundwork for collaboration and a shared vision for long-term impact.

Thank you to our partners, LGA South Australia and MGA Insurance Group, for their vital support.