Seymour’s ‘king of the kids’ Jayden Sheridan has just fallen short of being crowned Young Victorian of the Year.
Mr Sheridan was named a finalist for the award in recognition of his work to found the not-for-profit youth group Gnarly Neighbours, which he started in 2021.
Gnarly Neighbours offers free skateboarding lessons to children and youth in Seymour and surrounding areas, providing positive mentorship to many who would otherwise go without.
Mr Sheridan told the Review when he was nominated for the award that he didn’t need the win, maintaining the initial recognition was enough to drive more support for the organisation so it could further expand.
Taking home the title of 2024 Young Victorian of the Year was nurse and founder of Albury Wodonga Multicultural Community Events Inc Bhakta Bahadur Bhattarai.
Mr Bhattarai was acknowledged for his work in advocating and showcasing multicultural communities and providing community assistance during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Gisborne’s Janine Mohamed was named the 2024 Australian of the Year for Victoria.
The eight state and territory winners will now progress to the next round of judging for the title of Young Australian of the Year.
To see the full list of state and territory winners, visit bit.ly/3ujZV2c.
For more information on Gnarly Neighbours, visit gnarlyneighbours.com.au.
