Betelhem was one of 26 students honoured last Friday at Government House in Sydney.

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A Youth Community Service Award is given for exceptional service or engagement with the local community or to Australia in general.

Conducted by the Order of Australia Association (NSW Branch), students are nominated by their school principal for being exemplary community role models.

A selection panel then determines the final recipients.

Betelhem is a committed community volunteer with a strong sense of social justice.

Since 2023, she has assisted local charities including Community Union Defence League and Pete’s Place.

In connection with Zonta International, she recently enlisted a group of fellow students to assemble 200 birthing kits for women without medical care in developing countries.

The exercise was in keeping with her passionate support of a woman’s right to safe health care.

Betelhem is an advocate for climate action and co-organised a local “Concert for Climate”, featuring youth bands, to attract, educate and engage local youth.

This meant she had to coordinate with “School Strike for Climate’ and “The Australian Youth Climate Coalition”.

She is keenly aware of global injustices and is a regular participant in the “Act for Peace Ration Challenge” to raise money for refugees and displaced people throughout the world.

In addition, she is one of her school’s two Service Captains.

Convenor of the state awards Dr Frank Kelleher, congratulated Betelhem for being an exemplary community role model.

“She has contributed beyond the norm and her actions have inspired her fellow students,” he said.

“Betelhem is a beacon of inspiration for others to follow.”

By Andrea FERRARI