South Australia’s next generation of leaders has been celebrated at the 2026 Young Achiever Awards, with young changemakers from across the state recognised for their impact across community, sport, education, business, advocacy, the arts and public life.
Held at Hilton Adelaide on Saturday 30 May, the annual awards brought together more than 400 guests for a night honouring young South Australians aged up to 30 who are already helping shape the state’s future. Hosted by 7NEWS Adelaide presenter Mark Soderstrom, the ceremony culminated in Bailee Phillips being named the 2026 South Australia Young Achiever of the Year.
The awards have been recognising young South Australians since 1988, shining a light on the creativity, resilience and leadership of people making a difference in their communities and industries. This year’s finalists and winners included entrepreneurs, educators, advocates, athletes, apprentices, creatives and community leaders, each recognised for their contribution to South Australia and beyond.
Minister for Human Services Katrine Hildyard said the awards showed the depth of young talent across the state.
“These awards are a reminder of just how extraordinary young South Australians are and the enormous contribution they make to our state every day,” Minister Hildyard said.
“It is incredibly important that we celebrate young people who are creating change, breaking new ground and giving back to their communities, and this year’s award recipients represent the very best of this generation of South Australia’s leaders.
“Across every category, we are seeing young people lead with compassion, creativity, determination and a genuine commitment to making their communities stronger, fairer and more inclusive.
“Whether through innovation, advocacy, education, sport, business, the arts or community service, these young achievers are helping shape South Australia and its future in incredibly positive ways.
“These achievements are impressive and inspiring. They are role models for other young people, inspiring to people of every generation and a source of pride for our state.
“I sincerely congratulate and thank every finalist and winner for the contribution they make to South Australia. Our state is stronger because of their passion, leadership and willingness to step forward and make a difference.”
The eleven category winners were:
• Edward Robinson – Adelaide University STEM Award
• Lou Potter – Department of Human Services Pride Award
• Kahlia Gibson – Department of Human Services Aboriginal Achievement Award
• Bailee Phillips – University Senior College Create Change Award
• Amelia Griffin – Sweat Female Tech Entrepreneur Award
• Hugo Taheny – Aceit Transport Solutions Sports in the Community Award
• Suriya Down – Credit Union SA Education Award
• Madeleine Perrett – Websters Lawyers Achievement in Law Award
• Eloise Hall – Konica Minolta Career Achievement Award
• Cooper Mann – South Australian Skills Commission Outstanding Apprentice Award
• Charlee Watt – Carclew Creative Achievement Award
Each category winner received a trophy and a 45-minute breakthrough coaching session with DMT Coaching. Winners will also feature in a television campaign airing across South Australia on the Seven Network in the coming weeks.
Kellie Finlayson was also announced as the Fresh 92.7 People’s Choice Award winner, receiving a prize package including a behind-the-scenes station tour, guest interview opportunity, Fresh merchandise and social media promotion.
