Past care leaver Ella Bone has been recognised for her advocacy and leadership, named joint winner of the Leadership Award at this year’s Geelong Youth Awards.
The awards, held at Norlane ARC on Friday 11 September, celebrated the contributions, achievements and talents of young people aged 12 to 25 across nine categories.
This year, 191 nominations were received for 103 young people, with winners selected by a panel of young people, including members of the 2026 Youth Council.
Nominated by the Meli Care Team, Ella, 19, has transformed her lived experience into powerful advocacy for young people in out-of-home care.
With the support of her foster carers, Ella completed Year 12 and earned a leadership position – achievements that reflect her determination and the difference a caring, consistent relationship can make.
Ella continues to make a meaningful difference since leaving care, helping amplify young voices, shape services and create positive change for children and young people in out-of-home care.
Through her work with CREATE Foundation, Meli’s Youth Advisory Group and other advocacy initiatives, she is continuing to make a lasting impact in the community.
Ella has also generously shared her story through video and media opportunities to raise awareness of the need for more foster carers.
Ella’s story – and her recognition at the Geelong Youth Awards – is a reminder that foster care can change the course of a young person’s life.
“Foster care didn’t just give me a place to live. It gave me people who believed in me when I didn’t always believe in myself,” Ella said.
She will take to the stage at Meli’s Foster a Future Breakfast this week, joining a lived experience panel discussion to share her experiences.
Read the full list of Geelong Youth Awards winners here.
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