From classrooms to communities - BCE students shaping Australia’s future

They may only be in high school, but they’re already shaping conversations beyond the classroom!

Year 12 student Jamili from Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera, Year 11 student Emily from Sophia College, Plainland and Year 8 student Bonhee from St Benedict’s College, Mango Hill have all been appointed to prestigious youth leadership positions in 2026.

Jamili has been selected to represent the electorate of Fadden in the National Youth Parliament program, and has been awarded with a certificate from Cameron Caldwell MP, Federal Member for Fadden as part of her acceptance. Jamili is also the first youth member for FADEN in the Federal Youth Parliament.

Closer to home, Emily will be stepping into a significant leadership role as the 2026 Youth Member for Lockyer through the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament program.

While Bonhee was selected to join The Australian Council for Student Voice Advisory Board. 

National Youth Parliament program

Selected from more than 2,200 applicants nationwide, Jamili’s inclusion in the National Youth Parliament program speaks to her commitment to civic engagement and her confidence as a young leader prepared to advocate for others.

“I feel very honoured and grateful to have been selected for this position,” said Jamili.

“In this role, I hope to make a positive impact by connecting people together, fostering a supportive and kind environment that people can grow in. 

“I want to represent my College community in a way that inspires others to believe in themselves and see that they can achieve their goals if they put their mind to it.”

Jamili said that through the program she hoped to grown as a leader to “inspire others to get involved, and take steps towards creating a positive influence in their lives, and the lives of others”.

“I think this experience will shape my future in various ways,” she said.  “I believe I will be able to better understand the true importance and impact of leadership.

“After school, I hope to continue being a leader and a voice for others.”

Assisi Catholic College Principal John Frare said that Jamili exemplifies the Assisi spirit of courage, justice and service to others.

“National Youth Parliament will give her a powerful platform to explore leadership, engage in respectful debate and develop a deeper understanding of how she can shape Australia’s future,” he said.

“We are very proud of Jamili and the example she sets here for other students at Assisi.”

The National Youth Parliament, to be held in Canberra from 16 to 20 August 2026, will empower young Australians from all walks of life with the knowledge, confidence and skills to actively participate in Australia’s democratic and parliamentary system.

YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament program

Sophia College student Emily said her appointment as Youth Member for Lockyer will see her contribute to a state-level committee focused on science, innovation, energy and manufacturing.

“I am honoured to be a voice that is trusted to speak on behalf of other people my age,” she said.

“I really hope to be a positive and influential voice, with the goal to produce a bill that is meaningful and can be considered for parliament. Sophia College Principal Narelle Dobson said Emily’s appointment reflected her capability as a young leader, but also her passion for contributing to discussions that will shape the future of our community and industries. 

The Australian Council for Student Advisory Board

St Benedict’s College student Bonhee said her appointment reflects her commitment to student voice.

“Being appointed to this position is exciting, and I'm extremely honoured to have been chosen,” she said.

“It means a lot that people trust me with this.

“I want to ensure students voices are heard, including those who feel anxious about sharing their own. 

"I hope to be the person who speaks up for other students and show that people our age have a voice too.”

St Benedict’s College Principal Tameika Grist said Bonhee was deeply committed to ensuring every student felt seen, heard and represented. 

“She is a trusted voice within our College, and this opportunity allows her to extend that advocacy beyond our school gates, contributing student insights to national discussions and helping shape future priorities and practices that will make a difference to all students, including her peers,” she said. 

The Australian Council for Student Voice Student Advisory Board is a national body that brings together school-aged students from across Australia to influence Council’s work and participant in key educational discussions. 

For more information about Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera or to enrol click here.

For more information about Sophia College, Plainland click here.

For more information about St Benedict’s College, Mango Hill or to enrol click here.

Want to learn more about what makes a Catholic education special? Find a school near you today! Click here.

Image caption:  Assisi Catholic College Year 12 student Jamili with Member for Fadden Mr Cameron Caldwell. ©Brisbane Catholic Education (2026).

St Benedict’s College student Bonhee   
©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Benedict’s College, Mango Hill (2026)

Sophia College student Emily    
© Brisbane Catholic Education, Sophia College, Plainland (2026)