Rebecca Willcox, 17, attended yesterday’s launch of the Wodonga Council’s seventh youth awards at Victory Lutheran College, challenging everyone in the room to nominate someone.

The Wodonga Senior Secondary College student was last year awarded the performing arts award for her commitment to calisthenics.

“My surprise nomination came on the last day for entries,” she said.

“I encouraged everyone to step out of their comfort zone and nominate those they believe are doing a great job.”

Miss Willcox said the award had raised her profile.

“Things I am doing are now recognised,” she said. “It has given me a platform.”

Wodonga’s Cr Eric Kerr, a 2011 Red Carpet Committee member, launched the awards.

“The aim is to acknowledge all the wonderful contributions young people make,” he said.

“I encourage everyone here today to nominate at least one person.”

The awards are open to people aged 14 to 24 who work, live, study or volunteer in Wodonga.

There are nine categories and a youth ambassador award, with nomination forms available from council offices or its website.

The call for nominations closes at 5pm on June 1. A gala dinner for finalists will be held at The Cube Wodonga on July 31.