Joshoa Zilani: A champion of community engagement and youth advocacy
Joshoa Zilani is a remarkable example of how one person’s dedication to community service and advocacy can create significant, positive change – for self and for others. To Joshoa, being Australian means giving everyone a fair go, respecting others and celebrating diverse perspectives – values of which he truly lives by.
The Spirit of Community
For Joshoa, community is at the core of everything he does. He views community as more than just a backdrop to daily life; It connects our experiences, from where we live to the relationships we build and engage in.
“Community is everywhere,” he says. “Contributing to our communities not only strengthens our social connections but enhances our overall quality of life by addressing local needs.” His dedication is reflected in his belief that “by contributing to the community, we are not only helping others, but developing our own skills while actively leading and promoting a sense of responsibility.”
Joshoa’s journey into youth development and advocacy began with his involvement in his local Youth Advisory Group. Initially shielded from broader community issues, his participation opened his eyes to the challenges faced by young people and underscored the importance of service.
“Joining the Youth Advisory Group gave me firsthand insight into the challenges facing young people,” he recalls. “I started to understand the importance of service and championing important issues.”
This experience ignited a passion for addressing these challenges and inspired him to become a proactive voice for change. He explains how he discovered that effective advocacy is “not just about making noise, but rather about working constructively and finding common ground.”
A Proven Advocate
As the former Chair of the Youth Advisory Group for the City of Mandurah, Joshoa’s impact has already been substantial. His tenure saw the implementation of several key amendments and recommendations to local council policies, aimed at enhancing community safety, fostering economic development, and improving youth engagement.
His commitment to advocacy extends beyond policymaking. His efforts in mentoring fellow young leaders and inspiring them to harness their potential have been important in promoting and encouraging better and effective youth leadership.
“My work in advocacy and volunteering has been influential in teaching and inspiring young people about the power of leadership,” he explains. This dedication was recognised when he was awarded City of Mandurah’s Young Community Citizen of the Year, an accolade that he says both honoured his achievements and fuelled his passion for continued community service. “Being awarded Young Community Citizen of the Year served as a reminder that my efforts, and those of other young people, have yielded real change and meaningful impact.”
A Future-Focused Vision
Currently, Joshoa is studying Mechanical Engineering and Commerce (Economics) at The University of Western Australia. Alongside his academic commitments, he remains actively involved in youth advocacy. He has recently been appointed as a member of the Western Australian Ministerial Youth Advisory Council, signifying his ongoing commitment to championing state issues affecting young people.
“Being on the Ministerial Youth Advisory Council allows me to continue addressing key state issues and create meaningful change,” he says. In this role, Joshoa works closely with the Department of Communities and advises the Minister for Youth, along with 10 other young leaders across WA.
Looking ahead, Joshoa has set ambitious goals for the next five years, aiming to use his qualifications for positive change. “I aim to apply my engineering and economics expertise to develop innovative solutions that address practical needs, improve efficiency, and promote sustainable development,” he explains. “I will continue to actively be a voice for the community and advocate for key issues that need to be addressed.”
A Message to the Youth
To fellow young Western Australians, Joshoa’s message is simple yet profound: take that first step and engage with your community.
“Volunteering is far more than what it is assumed to be,” he expresses. “Find something that you are passionate about and try to use that passion to contribute by helping others.”
He continues by emphasising that “change and positive development are only possible when people step forward and are willing to voice their concerns and push for action on matters about which they are passionate.”
Joshoa Zilani’s journey is a testament to the power of advocacy, community service, and personal dedication. His achievements at such a young age highlight the impact that one individual can have when driven by a commitment to making a difference and fostering positive change.
If you know someone aged 16-30 who is contributing to their community, nominate them in the Community Citizen of the Year Awards at citizenshipawards.com.au.
The Community Citizen of the Year Awards are proudly supported by the Department of Communities, 9 News Perth, WAtoday and 6PR Perth.