Tremane Baxter-Edwards has won the National Indigenous Times Indigenous Community Leadership Award at the WA Young Achiever Awards night in Perth.
The award recognises exceptional community leadership displayed by young Indigenous people from Western Australia, whether it be within their family, business, profession, or through their advocacy or cultural contributions.
In accepting the Indigenous Community Leadership Award, Mr Baxter-Edwards noted that it represents more than just personal achievement; It stands as a testament to the collective strength and resolve of the Wyndham community.
Mr Baxter-Edwards said the recognition of his leadership came as a result of the collective effort and support he received from Aquinas College, his coworkers, and his family.
He highlighted the significance of speaking out against injustices and staying true to one's principles, emphasising the importance of collective action in effecting positive change.
"On the night my name was called, I was overwhelmed with a mix of emotions, feeling nervous was an understatement, and as a professional public speaker I have never felt more anxious to speak in front of microphone," he told National Indigenous Times.
"There was an immense sense of pride, knowing that the hard work and dedication had been recognised. I felt humbled by the acknowledgment and deeply grateful to those who have supported and believed in me throughout my advocacy journey.
"It was a moment of joy and reflection, a reminder of the impact we the young people can have when we come together to uplift and empower our communities."
Now in his final year at Aquinas College, Mr Baxter-Edwards is part of the Empowered Young Leaders Kimberley, a member of the Local Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) in Wyndham, a former member of the design committee for Empowered Young Leaders, and has taken part in 'Movember', successfully raising $1500 for men's mental health.
"When I was younger, I assisted my community as a representative and helper in 'No-smoking campaign', 'No grog' campaigns and mental campaigns specifically raising awareness on suicides rates in my region in the Kimberley," he said.
"All of these experiences have made me a better person for who I am and for lighting the advocacy spark a long time ago."
At the moment Mr Baxter-Edwards is involved in various important roles, such as being a member of Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney's First Nations Reference Group (FNRG) and the Australian Government First Nations Education Youth Advisory Group.
In these capacities, he is actively contributing to the development of policies that aim to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well as marginalised communities.
Additionally, he is set to take part in the WA Youth Parliament program next month as the only indigenous candidate representing Kalgoorlie. The program will culminate in a visit to Parliament House on 8, 9, and 11 July, where participants will engage in a live debate in the chamber.
Mr Baxter-Edwards has also recently been elected as the 29th Youth Deputy Leader of Opposition.
"These experiences have profoundly shaped me, igniting my passion for advocacy and helping me become the person I am today," he told National Indigenous Times.
