City of Armadale youth development officer recognised with local government award

ASHLEIGH Tapper works hard everyday to ensure young people in Armadale are able to enjoy positive futures.

The City of Armadale Community Development Officer-Youth was recognised for her dedication to changing the lives and futures of Armadale’s young people, named the winner of the Next Gen Local Government Leader category at the 2018 National Awards for Local Government.

The award was one of only two handed out to local governments in WA.

Ms Tapper said it was important not to put limitations on what a young person could achieve and instead provide them the opportunity to develop their potential.

“It is a privilege and very rewarding to work in a role that gives me a platform to give a voice to those who are often not seen or heard and it is my responsibility to make the most of that platform by focusing on the possibilities and potential that these young people have and not the problems,” she said.

“I have never before known people with such heart and drive to make change and lift the lives of others as the many organisations, youth workers and people working for young people in Armadale.

“They are the community leaders deserving of recognition and it is my privilege to work with, and for them.”

City of Armadale chief executive Ray Tame congratulated Ms Tapper on the award.

“It’s no surprise to me that one of our young leaders has been recognised in this way,” he said.

“Engaging with young people and key youth organisations on programs such as Armadale Aspire, Perfect Imperfections and Kinetic, Ashleigh has helped young people achieve goals beyond what they thought possible.

“We congratulate Ashleigh on her outstanding efforts and commitment to the youth of the district.”

The City of Armadale also won a highly commended award in the Boosting Productivity through Infrastructure category for their 50 Year Asset Management Plan.

Winners will be presented with their awards at the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly Dinner in Canberra on June 19.

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