Knaarla Karla Booja, Ballardong and Wilman teenager Jackson Phillips has been named Western Australia's 2026 Young Person of the Year after being recognised for his leadership, tennis achievements and work supporting other young people.
The year 11 student received the honour at the recent WA Youth Awards.
He was selected from more than 181 nominations, 39 finalists and 10 award categories.
Mr Phillips also received the Commissioner for Children and Young People's Rising Voice Award, recognising his peer leadership, community impact and commitment to supporting other young people.
His family described the announcement as an emotional moment.
"Watching Jackson's face when his name was announced is something I will never forget. You could see the shock, pride and emotion all at once," Jackson's family said.
"For us, this award isn't just about tennis or winning a title. It represents everything Jackson has overcome, the young man he has become and the way he continues to turn his own experiences into opportunities for other young people."
Mr Phillips has represented Western Australia at six National Indigenous Tennis Carnivals, where he has twice received the Deadly Award and has also received the Evonne Goolagong Award of Excellence.
Mr Phillips competes in Men's Division 2 tennis and is a trainee coach at his local tennis club, supporting younger players to build their confidence and skills.
He also arrives early to training to provide younger community members and junior players with extra practice.
Mr Phillips sees tennis as a way to connect people, build confidence and create a sense of belonging.
He is undertaking the Tennis Australia Level 2 Coaching Course and hopes to use his experience to create more opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to the sport.
One of his goals is to establish an ongoing tennis program or facility providing free opportunities for Aboriginal and disadvantaged children while creating space for them to learn about culture.
His experience growing up in foster care has also shaped his approach to leadership and his understanding of the importance of positive role models, culture, connection and supportive communities.
His family added he wanted his achievements to create opportunities for other young people.
"Jackson has never wanted recognition just for himself," his family said.
"He wants to use every opportunity he gets to open doors for other kids. His dream is to give Aboriginal and disadvantaged children somewhere they can play tennis for free, feel welcomed, build confidence and know that they belong."
As WA Young Person of the Year, Mr Phillips will receive a $10,000 project allowance to support a youth-focused initiative.
The funding will provide an opportunity for him to further develop his plans to support young people through sport, culture and community leadership.
Mr Phillips hopes the recognition will help him continue using tennis, culture and his own experiences to create pathways for the next generation.
