Three young high achievers have been named as this year’s Young Citizens of the Year for Hobsons Bay.
Friends Ada Goldenberg, Emmaline Soliman and Emily Vella are all thrilled to share the honour for their achievements in the last year.
As previously reported by Star Weekly, the 10-year-olds previously developed an idea for an app that tells people which public litter bin to use for rubbish.
This will be the second time the trio is recognised for their innovative skills, after previously winning a United Nations award through the Tech Girls Foundation in September.
Although one of the girls has now moved schools from St Mary’s in Williamstown, Emmaline’s mum Merna Soliman is confident the girls will continue their friendship and creative partnership.
“The girls are very excited and super proud. They can’t wait to explore what options they have,” she said.
The app encourages users to take a photo of their litter to find out which of the coloured bins it should go in and then receive reward points which can be redeemed through local businesses.
On a high from the win, Ms Soliman said the girls are excited to continue pursuing the app and where it can go.
“They are so passionate about it and can’t wait to collaborate with council on an on-going basis,” she said.
Dreaming big, the group is hopeful that this app will make a real difference in Hobsons Bay and eventually stand as a blueprint for other councils to replicate across the country.
In other news the girls are looking to start their own business , making moves by attending information sessions on entrepreneurship and young girls in business.
“It is really lovely seeing the three of them together because they feed of each other, they are all very passionate.”
Jennifer Pittorino
