She’s organised countless fundraisers and raised thousands of dollars for various causes – now Point Cook’s Sarah Baarini can add Wyndham young achiever of the year to her list of accolades after the council honoured her at a dinner last week.
The 17-year-old was honoured for philanthropic and volunteer work that has included organising fundraisers within her school and community for the Sids and Kids Foundation, Australian Kidney Foundation, Leukemia Foundation and Islamic Relief Australia.
She has also worked with the Lord Mayors Charitable Foundation, participated in think-tanks for the Cancer Council and organised anti-bullying days.
The year 12 Australian International Academy student is working to raise awareness for World’s Greatest Shave and also the Towards Hope Foundation, a medical team that donates time and money to under-privileged countries.
Mayor Adele Hegedich said Sarah, who last year won one of the council’s mayoral youth awards, was a worthy young achiever of the year.
“Sarah has been motivated in gaining donations from local businesses and organisations … [she] is passionate about promoting peace and harmony within the community,” Cr Hegedich said.
Sarah said she was surprised by the accolade.
“When I first started fundraising, I didn’t think that it was ever going to turn into an award,” she said.
“I was shocked when I got the initial mayoral youth award … this is completely on another level.”