Ariba Omar has always loved to write and will try her hand at reporting. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
After winning the Young Volunteer of the Year 2025 award, 15-year-old Ariba Omar says she wants to “give a voice to the voiceless” by writing media articles that shine a light on issues that affect the youth — such as the recent social media ban and underage drug use.
The Kooringal High student has been volunteering for the Cancer Council since she was four years old, selling merchandise to raise funds and spreading awareness by educating her peers. She has also participated in the SunSafe Student Ambassador Program, NSW Youth Parliament and various debating and leadership challenges.
But it was still a shock to Ariba when she was recognised for her efforts by the Centre for Volunteering at its annual awards night.
“I didn’t expect to win it at all,” she said. ”The age range was up to 25. The other contenders were mostly older and had done so much. When they called out my name, I couldn’t even breathe.”
Born in Saudi Arabia to a Muslim Indian family, Ariba now wants to try her hand at news reporting.
Earlier this month, she was selected to take part in Know Your Neighbour, a Local & Independent News Association (LINA) project to assist young people to develop digital content. Region will mentor her to produce an online article for our publication.
“I’m interested in journalism because I want to give a voice to the voiceless,” she said. ”I want to focus on helping young people, who face a lot of issues these days.
“I think there is a lack of consultation with young people on issues that impact us. There are councils and advisory bodies, but they don’t talk to us and seek our input before they make decisions.”
Ariba at the NSW Youth Parliament. Photo: Supplied.
Ariba says she’s seen the damage social media is causing her peers.
“There’s no control over what people see,” she said. ”It makes you unproductive by taking you away from other things. It also affects mood, especially doom scrolling [consuming negative news].”
Despite this, she’s against the Federal Government’s decision to ban those under 16 from using social media.
“I don’t think we should put blanket bans on things. We need to discuss the problems and work them out. We can’t just ban everything.
“Social media also helps us connect with people and share information. I went on a STEM camp in Adelaide and we connected online after it. I’ve learned a lot through them.
“In my household, my parents impose limits on screen time. My mum also sees who I follow, to make sure I don’t follow strangers. I think it’s the role of parents to monitor their children’s social media use. ”
Ariba is also exploring issues such as underage drug use, mental health and homelessness. She aims to have her article published by Region in December.
“I want to study medicine and become a GP, because we need more of them in Wagga. But I also love writing and am fascinated by journalism. That’s why I’ve decided to give it a go.”
If you’re a Year 12 student interested in giving journalism a try, email [email protected] to let us know how you want to make a difference.
