Leading with culture - Kane Munt celebrated for First Nations youth advocacy and mentorship

St Peter Claver College, Riverview student Kane Munt has won the Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award at the 7News Young Achievers Awards, recognised for his contributions to mentorship and advocacy for First Nations youth.

Kane was also a finalist for the Queensland Family and Child Commission Contribution to Community or Family Safety Award (First Nations). Both awards recognise young First Nations Queenslanders who are making significant contributions to the safety and connection to kin, Country, and culture, and who are positive role models within their community.

Proud Mabaigal man and youth leader from Mabuiag Island in the Torres Strait Islands, Kane said one way he is making a difference in the lives of First Nations youth through his position at St Peter Claver College as the 2026 Cultural Captain.

“I take great pride in my culture, and I get that from being surrounded by other First Nations people and students,” he said. 

“I want to be able to do that for other people and have a positive and direct impact on my community, and not just the First Nations people in my community, but for everyone, and in a way that shows understanding for all.”

Beyond our College, Kane has been selected as a National Rugby League Indigenous Youth Ambassador for 2025 and 2026, using the platform to inspire and empower other young people, while promoting pathways in sport, leadership and education.

Kane is also a Kirrawe Ambassador, a community-based charity providing culturally responsive services to Indigenous communities in South East Queensland, supporting young people to feel culturally safe, connected and supported.

Kane also volunteers with Nana Magic as a First Nations children’s entertainer, using creativity and storytelling to engage younger audiences and help build confidence and cultural understanding from an early age.

St Peter Claver College Principal Charles Brauer said culture is the beating heart of and inspiration behind everything Year 12 student Kane sets his mind to

“We are incredibly proud of Kane and his contributions to not only our College community, but to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth,” he said.

“Kane’s actions authentically embody our College values of Concern, Love and Justice.”

Kane’s Mother, Emilea Johnson, said watching Kane grow as a person through the work he does and the opportunities he takes has been very rewarding.

“As his cultural pride and responsibility grow, so does his confidence within himself and his desire to make a positive impact,” she said. 

Kane was also voted by his peers to represent the voice of First Nations youth as one of two NRL Youth Ambassadors last year. He was also recently selected to be part of the Future Voices Beyond the Broncos Leadership Program for a second year in a row.

For more information about St Peter Claver College, Riverview or to enrol click here.

About the 7News Young Achievers Awards

The purpose of the 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards is to acknowledge, encourage and most importantly promote the positive achievements of all young people throughout South Australia.

Image caption: Kane Munt has won the Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award at the 7News Young Achievers Awards. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St Peter Claver College, Riverview (2026).