Campbelltown's young achievers
Serena Xiao
Photo taken from Australia Day Council of South Australia.
Congratulations to Serena Xiao, who received a Commendation in the ‘Award for Leadership in Languages and Cultures – Category 1: High School Student’ at the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards Ceremony on 26 January 2026.
About Serena, the Australia Day Council of South Australia said:
'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.'
Elaaf Gill
Photo taken from South Australian Community Achievement Awards.
Congratulations to Elaaf Gill, who was recognised as a finalist for the Carers SA Young Carer Award at the SA Community Achievement Awards on 21 February 2026.
About Elaaf, Awards Australia said:
'Elaaf Gill of Campbelltown is championing meaningful support for young carers. Elaaf became a Young Carer at 13, stepping up after their father’s passing to support their mother’s complex mental ill-health and their sister’s physical and intellectual disability. They have managed essential household administration, coordinated NDIS and health services, advocated for increased supports, and played a central role in their mother’s recovery and their sister’s transition to expanded supported employment.
Despite isolation and significant emotional strain, Elaaf now contributes to systemic change through their involvement with the Headspace Youth Reference Group, DHS Youth Advisory Council, Adelaide PHN’s Community Advisory Council, and Young Carers SA Action Crew.'