Mount Annan Christian College student Siena Camilleri didn’t just think mental health awareness was important – she did something about it.
For a Year 10 Shark Tank exercise she created an online program called Siena’s Sport Sigma.
The program focused on the impacts of the stigma and online bullying faced by some athletes and sporting stars who have a public profile.
Siena sought to highlight the struggles that some may encounter in their careers, leading to loneliness and feelings of being undervalued.
Her program won the NSW state round of Shark Tank and was subsequently placed third in the national round.
Meanwhile the program gained more than 800 followers on Instagram and 40,000 Australian and New Zealander viewers on Tik Tok.
Siena received positive feedback from NRL and NRLW players, coaches and managers and was invited to training sessions and events.
Her interactions also provided her with a better understanding of mental health within the sporting industry, ensuring her program accurately portrays it to the community at large.
Now the Governor of NSW, Margaret Beazley, has presented the Camden student with a youth community service award, pictured above.
Siena was one of 26 students honoured by the Governor at Government House last Friday, October 25. Award recipients also received a trophy and certificate of commendation from the Governor.
Conducted by the Order of Australia Association (NSW) branch, students across the state are nominated by their school principal as being exemplary community role models before a selection panel determines the final award recipients.
Service ranges from local initiatives such as education, health and welfare for disadvantaged or underprivileged communities, to international initiatives in a host of community development activities such as education, health, sanitation and infrastructure projects.
The award is not for academic or sporting achievements.
Convenor of the awards, Dr Frank Kelleher, congratulated Siena Camilleri, saying she was an exemplary community role model.
“Siena is one of 26 high school students recognised today to have selflessly volunteered their time to a wide range of organisations and for many very worthy causes while busily preparing for their Higher School Certificates,” he said.
“Siena has contributed beyond the norm and her actions have inspired her fellow students.’’
