Volunteering champion is Hobart's Citizen of the Year

Published on 26 January 2022

Recipients of this year’s Hobart Community Awards have demonstrated a culture of service to the community, with awards presented to the founder of a volunteering organisation, an influential young human rights advocate, and a group of students tackling racism in schools and the wider community.

In a ceremony at the Sandy Bay Regatta this morning, Founder of the Australian International Youth Association (AIYA), Li Yang, was named the 2022 City of Hobart Citizen of the Year.

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said Li was a worthy recipient of the city’s most prestigious honour.

“Li’s organisation has made significant contributions to a number of events and organisations around Hobart, providing over 1000 volunteers to more than 40 different events,” Cr Reynolds said.

“The importance of AIYA goes further than the value of volunteer work in the community. The organisation has helped people who have come to Hobart from across the globe build connections and friendships that break down cultural barriers.

“Li is someone we are proud to have here in Hobart, and it’s my pleasure to present her with the Citizen of the Year award for 2022.”

The Young Citizen of the Year is 24-year-old Oliver Hovenden, who is recognised for his significant contribution to humanitarian causes through the Tasmanian branch of Amnesty International.

“From the beginning of high school, Oliver has been demonstrating a passion for the causes of the most vulnerable in our society, both locally and around the world,” Cr Reynolds said.

“Joining the state board of Amnesty International at the age of 16, Oliver has coordinated a number of human rights campaigns in Hobart, focusing on the rights of first nations Australians and refugees.

“Oliver has been influential in state policy, with a motion calling for greater protection of children and young people across Tasmania being adopted by the Legislative Council in 2021.”

This year’s Community Initiative or Event of the Year is Students Against Racism, comprising a group of young people from refugee or migrant backgrounds who deliver workshops to educate people about the impact of racism.

During 2021, the organisation presented its messages of inclusivity to more than 2000 people across Tasmania.

“Since their beginnings in 2008, Students Against Racism has been continually sharing the stories of those who have come to our shores through refugee programs and immigration,” Cr Reynolds said. “This group has inspired the creation of similar groups in other states, and for that we are extremely proud.

“To see our young people sharing their stories, and educating not only their student peers but the broader community about racism in our society is something we can all be inspired by. SAR have been contributing to Tasmanian society for 14 years, and it’s great to see them being recognised like this.”

The Hobart Community Awards, delivered through the National Australia Day Awards Program as part of today’s Sandy Bay Regatta program.

Also during the event, a special Citizenship Ceremony welcomed 70 new Australian citizens from 24 nations.