South West teenager recognised with 7NEWS Young Achiever Award

A South West student is showing no signs of slowing down as she adds a 7NEWS Young Achiever Award to her growing list of accomplishments this year.

On July 3, Dalyellup’s Isabella Chalker was one of nine winners recognised at the awards 2026 Gala Presentation Dinner, where she was announced the winner of the Department of Communities Young Women Leader Award.

It comes after the Year 12 student was awarded the 2026 City of Bunbury Young Citizen of the Year on Australia Day and was crowned the Lions National Youth of the Year in June.

Honoured and grateful, Isabella said being announced as the winner was a special moment.

“‘I’m impressed by the work of the other finalists and young women across Western Australia,” she said.

“It was a chance to reflect on all the people who have supported me, the opportunities I’ve been given, and the small steps that have led me to that moment.”

Recognised for her work across youth leadership, community volunteering and advocacy, Isabella said this included creating opportunities for young people to get involved, such as founding the Manea Senior College Z Club.

“Through this, we have delivered projects supporting both local and global communities, including assembling 100 birthing kits for women overseas in developing countries, while encouraging students to use their voices and take action on issues they care about,” she said.

Isabella was also the 2024 WA Ambassador for the Country to Canberra program, took part in the WA Youth Parliament in 2025, and volunteers her time at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, plays piano for residents at Dalyellup Bethanie Aged Care and is a patrol member of the Dalyellup Beach Surf Live Saving Club.

For young women wanting to make a difference in their own community, Isabella encouraged them to not underestimate the impact they could have and said the most meaningful ideas began with simply caring and taking the first step.

“Find something you are passionate about, surround yourself with people who support you, and don’t be afraid to put your hand up for opportunities,” she said.

“Your perspective matters, and your community needs young women who are willing to lead, challenge ideas, and create positive change.”