Oxley High School Aboriginal Education Officer Janine Way nominated Lahkeisha, describing her as an exceptional young lady.

“Lahkeisha is highly intelligent, honest and reliable. She has an admirable work ethic, shows concern for the welfare of others and takes on leadership roles. She takes pride in all she does and always conducts herself with the utmost integrity at all times,” Ms Way said.

Lahkeisha was also invited to take part in the 2016 Emerging Leaders Forum, which brought together the top 20 award winners from across the state to meet with Aboriginal, business and government leaders.

Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said Lahkeisha represented her school and her community extremely well at the forum, describing her as a positive role model for young women and a shining example of what you can achieve when you put your heart and mind to a goal.

“Lahkeisha is a caring and dedicated young lady who takes pride in her Aboriginality and is a fantastic leader and contributor to her school and her community,” Mr Anderson said.

“It was evident by the people present when Lahkeisha received her award that she is well respected and held in high regard by both her teachers and her peers.

“Harnessing the potential of our young people is something that I am passionate about. When we invest time and energy in young people we are investing in all of our futures.”