ECU graduate and current student recognised as inspiring young Western Australians

Edith Cowan University (ECU) is proud to congratulate alumna Casey Moller and current student Molly McKenna both from the School of Arts and Humanities, who were recognised as inspiring individuals at the 2024 WA Youth Awards.

Now in its 25^th year, the WA Youth Awards recognise and reward young Western Australians for their achievements and contributions to the community.

Casey Moller with Hon. Hannah Beazley MLA, Minister for Local Government and Youth. Image credit: Sypha Photography.

Creating safe and accessible spaces

ECU alumna Casey Moller graduated from ECU with a Bachelor of Psychology in 2021. She was awarded the Minister for Youth's Most Outstanding Youth Worker Award.

A dedicated youth worker, Casey currently serves as the Community Engagement Officer for headspace Midland. Her role focuses on early intervention and prevention, delivering tailored psychoeducation workshops and programs that meet the diverse needs of young people by ensuring information is accessible and engaging.

Casey said that being named a finalist was already such a profound moment but to actually receive the prestigious award feels truly amazing.

"This recognition goes beyond a personal or professional achievement; it reflects the collective efforts of so many incredible individuals who have supported and inspired me to become the Youth Worker I am today," Casey said.

"After I completed my studies at ECU, I applied for my current job at headspace Midland. My coursework in psychology, counselling and youth work has formed my intellectual identity and kick started my career in community engagement, mental health and youth work."

Casey is planning to return to her studies at ECU to complete a fourth year in Psychology in 2025.

"My passion in working with young people and supporting their mental and sexual health stems from my own lived experiences, and I hope to continue my studies to understand and contribute to the growing literature to ensure better outcomes for all young people."

Molly McKenna with Angela Brynjulfsen, Manager of Youth Services at Parkerville Children and Youth Care. Image credit: Sypha Photography.

Reviving hope and enthusiasm

Molly McKenna is currently studying a Bachelor of Media and Communication at ECU. She won the Parkerville Children and Youth Care Creative Contribution Award.

As the lead guitarist in their band, Dullhouse, Molly has combined her passion for music and performing with community. Molly created The South West Setlist, a mission dedicated to creating platforms and spaces for young, regional, and up and coming bands in the South West, where there has long been a gap.

From establishing the first and only all ages events in the South West, to reviving the scene across tired venues, Molly's connections and skills have given a platform to regional talent, while involving the disengaged youth of today in affordable, accessible and alternative spaces.

"I aim to create the spaces I wish I had growing up, and create opportunities for young regional artists," Molly said.

"Winning the Award meant so much to me as I started creating these events out of passion. I am passionate about it as a previous arts and music high school student, where I was always told these passions could only be hobbies, and that music and arts programs within schools and education systems were a last priority and received little funding.

"I want to revive the hope and enthusiasm for other young people who love and enjoy arts and music." Molly said.

Molly's next event is The Big Gig on Saturday 16 November in Bunbury, a small scale music festival celebrating youth, music and culture.

Amber Ugle-Hayward with ECU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student, Equity and Indigenous) Professor Braden Hill.

Outstanding ECU leadership

ECU is pleased to have partnered with the Youth Affairs Council of WA (YACWA), who delivers the Awards, for the past 17 years.

The University proudly sponsors the ECU Community Leadership Award which recognises an individual with outstanding leadership qualities with a commitment to empowering others within the community.

This year, Amber Ugle-Hayward was awarded the ECU Community Leadership Award.

As a passionate Noongar woman, Amber excels as an advocate for youth and reconciliation. Her personal experiences fuel her dedication to advocacy and mentoring. Amber's unwavering commitment to social change and youth empowerment continues to make a significant impact across various platforms.

Find out more about the 2024 WA Youth Awards