Zyna’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when aspiration meets opportunity. From the moment she joined the Academy she leaned in, asked questions, connected with her tribe, and let her confidence grow day by day.

At Larita Academy, we believe visibility matters because it shifts what young people believe is possible. When they find themselves in spaces they never imagined, they begin to see that they belong in rooms of influence and that their voice carries weight.

That is what happened for Zyna. She stepped into the program ready to grow, and she left knowing she could write her own story. Her reflections capture this beautifully. She now sees herself as capable, determined, and in charge of her future. That is exactly why this award exists.

We’re grateful to Youth InSearch for the steady support wrapped around her throughout this journey. Their belief in her made a real difference, giving her the grounding to step forward with pride.

Zyna is now excited to be exploring job opportunities in community services, a space where she hopes to use her lived experience and leadership to support others.

The impact continues well beyond the Academy. Zyna puts it best herself:

"Since Larita, I've gotten a job and I've been working hard. And I've been learning so much, Larry was right. I've gotten my Learner's and now officially have a car which I am learning to drive. Manual, of course."

"All in all, I've been having a great time. And I'm really glad I got the shove I needed from Larita Academy, because I certainly wouldn't be where I am today. Like a domino effect. Even better, I’m looking at a possible opportunity to work with at risk youth all around eastern Australia, in a Regional Reset program.”

One detail that stays with us is how Zyna now proudly wears her Larita cap everywhere. Admiralty House, meetings, out in the community; it has become her quiet statement of belonging and agency.

Congratulations Zyna. We love watching the future you’re building.