Deakin University Young Influencer Award

Why become a Deakin Young Influencer

If you're a leader in your local community, have a willingness to help others, or enjoy thinking of new ideas to solve real-world problems, the Deakin Young Influencer Award may be perfect for you. Our prestigious award is offered to just one student from each of Deakin's select group of schools, meaning this excellent addition to your resume will give you a distinct edge on others in your future pursuits.

Key selection criteria

Applications are open to Year 11 students who meet one or more of the following key selection criteria:

have made an outstanding contribution to their school or local community, or perhaps a community in need in Australia or overseas
demonstrate a real willingness to help, coach, teach or care for others in a significant way
foster inclusive and supportive environments wherever they go and show a willingness to challenge preconceived ideas and the status quo
are strong leaders, helping to bring about change for the betterment of others
generate and apply new ideas and fresh thinking to real-world problems and help to deliver new solutions that make positive impacts
share knowledge and cultivate connections on a local level, or, far and wide
are committed students who have achieved above-average Year 11 results.

I've been involved in a variety of local fundraisers, volunteering and tutoring for six years. This award means a lot as it acknowledges my achievements and opens up a whole realm of opportunities.

Olivia Kelly

Past Deakin Young Influencer Award recipient

Award value

Recipients of our Young Influencer Award will receive a $5000 scholarship. Winners will receive a payment of $500 upon winning the award. The remaining $4500 will be received across your first year of undergraduate study at Deakin University in 2027.

Representing Deakin's values

The annual Deakin Young Influencer Award acknowledges outstanding students who represent Deakin's values.

Community leadership

Deakin has always valued and contributed to the communities we serve.

Do you make outstanding contributions to the community – in or out of school?
Do you help to foster a supportive and inclusive environment?
Can you demonstrate that you stand up for what you believe in?

Change advocacy

Deakin is agile and responsive to change, with a history of using cutting-edge technology to provide personal and flexible learning experiences to prepare our graduates for the jobs of the future.

Do you think laterally?
Do you challenge preconceived ideas or the status quo?
Do you generate and apply fresh thinking to real-world problems?

Progressive thinking

At Deakin, we're always looking forward, and continuously advance education through progressive teaching, innovative research and global engagement.

Can you offer new solutions to existing problems?
Are you open and adaptive to change?
Do you share knowledge and connect with others easily?

I've had a lot of community involvement through volunteer umpiring and coaching at my local sports club, as well as fundraising for local organisations. This award goes a long way to helping me achieve my dreams to continue helping those in need.

Cooper Mills

Past Deakin Young Influencer Award recipient | Current Deakin student