The 𝗣𝗮𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗶 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements of young Australians of Pakistani heritage, aged 6 to 19 years, who demonstrate excellence in academics, sports, STEM, the arts, leadership, community service and other fields. 

The awards aim to inspire the next generation by acknowledging talent, dedication, innovation and positive contributions to society, while encouraging young people to pursue their passions and become role models within the community.

Award Categories & Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility

• Open to young people aged 6–19 years.

• Nominees must be of Pakistani heritage and residing in Australia.

• Achievements should generally be from the past two years, unless otherwise stated.

1. Academic Excellence Award

Who should apply?

Students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to learning.

Examples of achievements

• Outstanding school reports or academic results

• Academic awards or scholarships

• Excellence in one or more school subjects

• Success in academic competitions or Olympiads

• Consistent high academic performance

Evidence required

• Recent school reports

• Certificates or awards

• Letter of recommendation from a teacher or principal (recommended)

• Supporting statement (maximum 500 words)

2. Sporting Excellence Award

Who should apply?

Young athletes who have excelled in individual or team sports.

Examples of achievements

• Representing school, club, state or national teams

• Winning sporting competitions or championships

• Demonstrating exceptional dedication and sportsmanship

• Significant improvement or achievement in their chosen sport

Evidence required

• Certificates, medals or trophies

• Selection letters

• Competition results

• Coach's recommendation (recommended)

3. STEM & Innovation Award

Who should apply?

Students with outstanding achievements in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics, or who have developed innovative ideas or projects.

Examples of achievements

• Robotics competitions

• Coding or programming projects

• Science fairs

• Engineering or invention projects

• AI or technology innovation

• STEM competitions

Evidence required

• Certificates or awards

• Project summary

• Photos or videos

• Competition results

• Teacher or mentor recommendation

4. Creative Arts Award

(Painting, Drawing, Illustration, Sculpture & Mixed Media)

Who should apply?

Young artists who demonstrate creativity, originality and artistic excellence.

Examples of achievements

• Original artwork

• Art exhibitions

• School or community art awards

• Commissioned artwork

• Art competition achievements

Evidence required

• Portfolio (up to 10 images)

• Certificates or awards (if applicable)

• Artist statement

• Teacher or mentor recommendation (optional)

5. Performing Arts Award

(Drama, Acting, Vocal & Instrumental Music)

Who should apply?

Young performers who have demonstrated excellence in the performing arts.

Examples of achievements

• Theatre productions

• Acting performances

• Singing competitions

• Instrumental performances

• Musical examinations

• School or community performances

Evidence required

• Videos of performances

• Certificates or awards

• Performance programs

• Recommendation from music or drama teacher (optional)

6. Youth Leadership Award

Who should apply?

Young people who inspire others through leadership, initiative and positive influence.

Examples of achievements

• School captain or prefect

• Student leadership positions

• Leading youth initiatives

• Mentoring younger students

• Organising projects or events

Evidence required

• Description of leadership activities

• Recommendation from teacher, mentor or community leader

• Certificates (if applicable)

7. Public Speaking Award

Who should apply?

Young people with exceptional communication skills through public speaking.

Examples of achievements

• Poetry

• Short stories

• Debate competitions

• Public speaking competitions

• Speech presentations

Evidence required

• Writing samples and/or speech videos

• Competition certificates

• Teacher recommendation (optional)

8. Religious Studies Award

Who should apply?

Students who have demonstrated excellence in Islamic or religious studies together with exemplary character and commitment to learning.

Examples of achievements

• Outstanding achievement in Islamic studies

• Quran memorisation (Hifz)

• Tajweed achievements

• Islamic knowledge competitions

• Leadership within Islamic educational programs

Evidence required

• Certificates

• Results from recognised institutions

• Recommendation from teacher or Imam

• Supporting statement

9. Community Service Award

Who should apply?

Young people who have made a meaningful contribution to their community through volunteer service.

Examples of achievements

• Volunteering with charities

• Community fundraising

• Environmental projects

• Youth volunteering

• Supporting community organisations

Evidence required

• Volunteer reference

• Photos

• Certificates

• Description of community impact

10. Cultural Ambassador Award (🌟 New Category)

Who should apply?

Young people who actively promote and preserve Pakistani culture, heritage, language and traditions within Australia.

Examples of achievements

• Promoting Pakistani culture through community events

• Urdu language promotion

• Cultural education initiatives

• Representing Pakistani culture at multicultural events

• Encouraging cultural understanding within the wider Australian community

Evidence required

• Photos or videos

• Event participation

• Certificates

• Letter of support

• Personal statement

11. Digital Creator Award (🌟 New Category)

(Photography, Filmmaking & Digital Content)

Who should apply?

Young creators producing original and engaging digital content with a positive purpose.

Examples of achievements

• Photography

• Short films

• Documentary production

• Educational content

• Creative digital storytelling

• Social media campaigns with positive community impact

Evidence required

• Portfolio or links to work

• Awards or recognitions (if applicable)

• Description of creative work

• Audience reach or impact (optional)

12. Youth Entrepreneur Award (🌟 New Category)

Who should apply?

Young people who have demonstrated innovation, initiative and entrepreneurial thinking.

Examples of achievements

• Starting a small business

• Developing a product or service

• Social enterprise

• Fundraising initiatives

• Business competitions

Evidence required

• Business or project summary

• Photos or website/social media

• Awards (if applicable)

• Mentor recommendation (optional)

13. People's Choice Award (🌟 New Category)

Who should apply?

All nominees are automatically eligible.

Selection criteria

The recipient will be determined through a public voting process conducted by the organisers.

Evidence required

No separate application is required.

General Judging Criteria (Applicable to All Categories)

Judges will consider:

• Achievement & Excellence (40%)

• Commitment & Dedication (25%)

• Impact on School, Community or Field (20%)

• Character, Leadership & Future Potential (15%)