MC: Past President Kevin Sheehan
Reflection: Past President Peter Dakin – the transcript of this week’s reflection is included later in this Bulletin.
President Philip paid tribute to the late Right Reverend Honourable Dr Peter Hollingworth AC OBE, former Governor-General, Anglican leader, social justice advocate, Australian of the Year and long-serving Rotarian. His decades of service to the Brotherhood of St Laurence, Indigenous Australians, refugees, the homeless, unemployed and disadvantaged were acknowledged, followed by a moment’s silence.
Philip noted that this was Rotary Melbourne’s 42nd meeting of the Rotary year, and 5,125th in its 106-year history, centred on the annual Young Achievers Awards, first presented by the Club in 1992.
After welcoming all guests and visiting Rotarians (their details are included later in this Bulleting) President Philip initiated the induction of new Rotary Melbourne member, Jessica Ziersch.
In her brief induction response, Jessica, a Victorian public service executive and former Rotary Youth Exchange, RYLA participant and Rotary Club of Tailem Bend member, spoke of returning to Rotary as a meaningful continuation of values shaped by family, regional community life and public service.
President Philip then handed over proceedings to Chair of the Day, Mimmie Watts to preside over the Young Achievers Award presentation. She began by welcoming special guest Nick Pearce, co-founder of the Homie fashion brand and social enterprise, and a 2019 Young Achiever Award alumnus, as this year’s Award presenter..
In his introductory remarks, Nick spoke warmly about Rotary’s support and urged the awardees to use the Rotary network. He described HoMie’s work supporting young people affected by homelessness or hardship through dignified clothing experiences and employment pathways. Homie has now supported more than 4,000 young people and paid over $1 million in wages. Nick emphasised the importance of language, dignity, opportunity and “doing something for someone”, rather than trying to solve every problem at once.
The 2026 Young Achiever Award recipients were then presented. Mahsa Nabizada was recognised for excellence in community leadership and youth advocacy, including her media work with the ABC, youth advisory roles and support for multicultural communities and women’s empowerment. Jack Benci was honoured for excellence in education, mentoring and community impact, with achievements across chemistry, research, tutoring, STEM outreach and support for Indigenous and international students. Joel Moffet, currently in Switzerland, was recognised for excellence in biomedical research and community leadership through his PhD work in brain cancer research at WEHI and the University of Melbourne, and his leadership in student and inclusion networks.
A new Emerging Leader and Future Impact Award, sponsored by Untapped Talent, was presented to Mary Nguyen, a University of Melbourne Commerce student recognised for leadership, learning, volunteering, innovation and promise.
Recipients offered brief thanks. Mahsa acknowledged Rotary’s earlier support for her STEM journey and thanked her sister and friend Emma. Jack spoke movingly about teaching as “building bridges” for students from diverse backgrounds.
To view the full recording of this meeting Click here.
