A Glen Innes student has taken the next step towards national recognition after winning the Zone Final of the Lions Youth of the Year competition held in Glen Innes on Sunday, 15 March.
Molly Chard, the 2026 Head Prefect at PLC Armidale, impressed judges during a demanding day of competition that tested leadership, communication skills and community awareness.
The Lions Youth of the Year program challenges senior secondary students across several areas, including interviews, public speaking and community engagement.
As part of the zone final, Molly first completed a 40-minute panel interview where judges questioned students on leadership, community involvement and current affairs.
Competitors then delivered two impromptu speeches, responding to topics with only a short preparation time before presenting in front of an audience.
The final component was a prepared speech. Molly delivered an address encouraging young women to pursue their passions and interests, including careers in fields such as agriculture.
PLC Armidale Principal Nicola Taylor congratulated Molly on her success and praised the way she represented her school and community.
“Molly represented both her school and her community with great distinction,” Mrs Taylor said.
“The Lions Youth of the Year program recognises students who demonstrate leadership, service and the ability to communicate confidently. Molly showed all of these qualities throughout what is a very demanding competition.”
Mrs Taylor also acknowledged the support provided by PLC Armidale Humanities teacher Roxanne Shumack, who assisted Molly in preparing for the event.
The Lions Youth of the Year program has a long history of encouraging leadership among senior secondary students, recognising young people who contribute strongly to their schools and communities while also demonstrating academic, sporting and cultural involvement.
Following her win in Glen Innes, Molly will now progress to the Regional Final in Tamworth later this month. If successful there, she will advance to the District Final, followed by state and national rounds.
The competition progresses quickly through each stage, with the national final to be judged at the Lions National Convention in Adelaide from May 22 to 25.
The national winner receives $5,000 on their eighteenth birthday, while the Public Speaking winner receives $2,500.
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