We are proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Y WA Awards - an inspiring group of individuals and teams who embody our values and make an extraordinary impact across our organisation.
Each of this year’s recipients has gone above and beyond in their roles, demonstrating unwavering care, innovation, and commitment to supporting children, young people, families, and communities across Western Australia.
Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such passionate, dedicated team members living our purpose every day. Please join us in celebrating their well-deserved achievements.
The Y WA Safeguarding Award – Jake Clayton, Qualified Educator at Currambine OSHC
Jake is a shining example of what it means to lead with care, integrity, and a deep commitment to keeping children safe. At Currambine OSHC, he has built a strong culture of safety by embedding the Y’s Guiding Children’s Behaviour Agreement into everyday practice, helping children understand and live the values of respect, responsibility, and care.
His proactive communication and thorough documentation set a high bar for safeguarding, while his calm and confident leadership ensures safety remains front of mind for both children and educators.
In challenging moments, Jake steps in with empathy and professionalism, providing support that reassures his colleagues and builds trust with families. His dedication makes him an outstanding role model and a truly deserving recipient of the Safeguarding Award.
The Power of Inspired Young People Award – Shikara Collins, Youth Worker at the Y School
Shikara has quickly become a driving force within the Y School’s youth work team, known for her creativity, compassion, and courageous leadership.
Her determination to turn ideas into action has led to countless opportunities for students. From organising excursions to Parliament House and leading Pride celebrations, to developing innovative wellbeing and skills-based programs that help young people flourish.
Shikara takes a holistic approach to youth work, supporting students in every aspect of their lives. She helps them build confidence, develop healthy routines, and experience moments of joy and connection that spark belief in their own potential.
Her dedication and energy inspire her colleagues and, most importantly, the young people she supports each day.
The Lin Doust Award for Human Flourishing – Renee Chakaodza, Literacy Specialist
Renee is transforming early childhood education across Western Australia through her leadership of the School ReadY Program. As the Y WA’s first Literacy Specialist, she has delivered professional development to more than 50 educators, provided one-on-one coaching, and introduced new literacy screening tools now used with over 700 children.
Her work strengthens educators, engages families, and supports children to develop the confidence, curiosity, and foundational skills they need to flourish.
Renee’s impact now extends beyond WA, with the program expanding to Canberra and Victoria; a remarkable achievement that reflects her vision, expertise, and heartfelt commitment to helping every child thrive in mind, body, and spirit.
The Sir George Williams Team Award – The Y School
The Y School team continues to redefine what education can look like for young people who have become disengaged from mainstream schooling. Through personalised pathways, therapeutic support, and creative learning models, they create environments where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn.
Their impact is remarkable. Students are reconnecting with education, achieving academic success, gaining scholarships, publishing creative work, and presenting at national conferences. Their influence is also extending into the broader sector, with staff supporting peers across WA and beyond.
This team represents the very best of the Y’s purpose: empowering young people to flourish. Their compassion, innovation, and belief in every student make them truly deserving recipients of the Sir George Williams Team Award.
Whether working directly with children and young people or supporting our operations behind the scenes, every person at the Y WA contributes to our mission.
To this year’s winners: thank you. Your passion, courage, and commitment make a real and lasting difference and we are proud to celebrate you.