Youth Leadership Award winner Farzad Ihaab Ahmad tells Jennifer Pittorino about his work with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and how he feels about being named among Maribyrnong council’s Civic Award winners.
Tell us a bit about you and what you do at the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.
At the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation I have committed to participating in multiple workshops and programs. These include Youth Leadership Program, implementing a program combatting racism within our community, the Hackathon Project, helping to design community events and finally Bark for Youth, a youth filled program helping to improve the community.
Tell us about how you feel about being awarded in the civic awards?
Being awarded the Youth Leadership Civic Award was a true honour. I was overflowing with joy and excitement when my name was called with pinches of nervousness. Reflecting on my dedication to support the community, I was immensely proud for being nominated and getting award.
What does this mean to you?
The award has given me more inspiration and encouragement for the future I set to achieve, firing up my heart to strive to accomplish more milestones. I am also thankful to the Almighty, Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and my family for supporting me.
What’s your connection to Maribyrnong or Hobsons Bay?
I have grown up in this area since birth, From grade five till now I have been involved in my school and youth projects for the local council. I am also participating with Western Bulldogs for the local youth community as well as being a part of the 30 ACU Sunshine Army cadets and we have raised funds for many charities throughout the year.
What do you like about where you live?
I simply love the community of where I live. We are so diverse in culture and personalities, yet are able to unite and achieve so much. From annual community events to workshops in local libraries, none of it would be possible without every individual’s support.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
Truthfully speaking, I would not change anything about the people where I live. The loving people and warmth of places have raised me to become the determined individual I am today. Having said that, the increasing rates of crime have concerned me for the youth community. I believe more awareness about our surroundings and safety is required. Another change can be implemented is provided more safer roads as accidents are happening near schools and the busy shopping precinct a lot these days.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
I would say the local library and school due to both areas being the heart of friendships and network building.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I enjoy watching health related videos and want to implement a healthy lifestyle for my family and the people around me. Currently I am putting an extra effort to sleep early and have less screen time as eight-10 hours of sound sleep is most important for someone of my age. I love meeting people and making friends wherever I can, no matter how new the place is to me.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
Thanks to Star weekly for providing me this opportunity. I would like to say to my youth mates always take any opportunities that come your way. Do not be discouraged by your incapability, you only improve from experiences. Doing as much as you can in your life will not only make you build greater connections and skills, but make you mentally proud and thrilled for doing so. You don’t have to be 100 per cent ready to take on something, life will never be so simple. So take on the challenge and fulfil yourself in triumph.
