Two public high school students have received a Youth Order of Australia for their work on the Minister’s student council, known as DOVES (Department of Student Voices in Education and Schools).

Ruby Stafford, who’s in year 11 at Kyogle High School and Hadiya Fatima, year 11 at Macarthur Girls High, received the prestigious award at a ceremony at Government House in Sydney.

Hadiya described it as a profound honour.

“It is a moment of immense gratitude, but more than that, it is a moment of inspiration,” she said.”

“Being recognised alongside so many passionate and driven young people reminds me that real change begins with a vision to make a difference.”

DOVES was created following a request from the NSW Government to develop a formal way of hearing the views of students.

The council provides advice on education and school policy and gives feedback to help with the planning and development of department programs.

Ruby said giving back to her school and community through DOVES was incredibly rewarding.

“Learning from the stories and experiences of those in my community inspired me to create the change I want to see,” she said.

“I can say with great confidence that as a collective our council has helped to facilitate impactful inclusive change within the NSW Public education system.”

Hadiya said serving on DOVES was one of the great privileges of her life.

“I treasure this role not just for the platform it provides, but for the responsibility it represents for just people,” she said.

“I love working with the DOVES, Students across NSW, and with my own local and cultural community because I believe deeply in the power of young people, to shape a better world.”

Ruby Stafford said she felt further invigorated after receiving the Youth Order of Australia.

“This recognition motivates me to keep building connections, giving back, and looking for new ways to create positive change in the future.”