Former Tamworth High School student Samantha Moxon was named 2014 Young Citizen of the Year at a ceremony at Ray Walsh House yesterday.

She was joined on the honours list by inspirational 16-year-old Maree Vongphachan, who was bestowed with the Mitchell Brady Encouragement Award.

At just 18 years of age, Miss Moxon has already compiled an enviable list of academic, sporting and community achievements.

Described as a “diligent and conscientious” student, last year she juggled her HSC studies with serving as Tamworth High’s school captain, raising money for various local charities and participating in the Reading Aloud to Someone program.

Miss Moxon, whose proud parents Ian and Leonie were on hand to see their daughter collect her award, said it was an “unbelievable” feeling.

“You do things because you enjoy them and you don’t expect to be recognised, so it is a great honour,” Samantha said.

“I enjoy helping other people and working with other people to achieve something and you see the results from that. The end goal always pays off.”

Miss Vongphachan was part of a team that created the “Mindzone” area at Tamworth High School to provide students with information about mental health.

As well as receiving numerous academic awards, she has volunteered her time at the school canteen and raised money for the Red Cross and Legacy charities.

“It’s really nice, I’m very thankful,” she said.

“I just really like to help people. If I can help bring happiness to someone else, that makes me happy.”

Chris Coulton and Amber Minette were also recognised for their contributions as nominees for the Young Citizen of the Year award.