Hurlstone Agricultural High School student Zarif Rahman has been awarded the Order of Australia NSW Youth Community Service Award in recognition of his advocacy, leadership and service to young people across the state.

The Year 12 student is the second from the school to receive the award, following Anika Shinde's win in 2025.

Living with a vascular malformation that affects mobility on the left side of his body, Zarif uses a crutch or wheelchair depending on the circumstances.

Far from limiting him, his experience has become a driving force behind his advocacy for equity, inclusion and opportunity for all young people.

Reflecting on the award, Zarif said it was a reminder of the power of consistent, small acts of service.

"I'm incredibly honoured and grateful to be recognised alongside so many inspiring young Australians, it's a reminder that meaningful change starts with small, consistent efforts," he said.

"This award represents not only my efforts, but the communities, and young people who have trusted and supported me. It really motivates me to continue creating opportunities for others and using my voice to serve the community."

Zarif said his service had taught him as much about himself as it had about the people he worked alongside.

"I've learnt that leadership is about listening first, then acting," he said.

"Everyone has a story worth hearing and giving people a platform can be life changing.

“I've also discovered that resilience, empathy, and persistence are just as important as technical skills, you need a balance of both to effectively push for change."

He said the experience had prepared him for life beyond school by strengthening his communication, leadership and project management skills, and instilling in him "a lifelong commitment to serving others" that he hopes to carry into his future career.

Hurlstone Agricultural High School’s Relieving Principal, Thomas Elley, praised Zarif's achievement as a reflection of his character.

"Zarif winning the Youth Community Service Award is a significant achievement and a deserved recognition of his character and generosity," Mr Elley said.

"What stands out in everything Zarif does isn't that he's motivated for recognition, but by his genuine desire to make a difference for other people.

“This award speaks to a young man who has been prepared to give his time, energy, and talents in the service of others."

Mr Elley said Zarif's achievement reflected the values Hurlstone hopes to instil in all its students.

"We want our students to leave Hurlstone knowing that opportunity carries responsibility, and that success is most meaningful when it creates opportunities for others,” he said.

"This is also a wonderful example of what a public education can achieve.

“All public schools bring together young people with extraordinary talents, and these same schools give them opportunities to both excel personally and understand how their knowledge, leadership, and character can contribute to the wider community.

"We congratulate Zarif wholeheartedly. He has demonstrated that achievement and service can and should sit alongside one another. That is a message worth celebrating."

At school, Zarif is a respected senior prefect and leader of the Hurlstone Islamic Society, where he has fostered a strong sense of belonging while promoting interfaith understanding.

Beyond the school gates, his leadership has reached state and national platforms, including as a member of the NSW Minister's Student Council and an executive member of the Australian Council for Student Voice, where he represents the perspectives of young people in discussions on education policy and student wellbeing.