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Year 12 student Scarlett is emerging as one of the Central Coast’s most passionate young advocates for equality, safety and youth representation. Recently appointed as the 2026 Youth Member for The Entrance through , she has already begun using her voice to influence conversations that matter to young people in her community. 

Scarlett traces her commitment to advocacy back to her upbringing: “My parents were insistent on kindness and empathy, and trying to understand the perspectives of others, even if they are different to you. That led to my passion for politics and human rights, because they are so interconnected.” When she joined �������� in Year 9, Scarlett discovered opportunities to further develop the moral character strengths of respect, integrity and gratitude, channelling these values into real action. “It is one thing to be passionate, but it is another to actually be able to exercise that in the real world, which I think Grammar does an amazing job at,” she said. 

A meeting with The Entrance MP, David Mehan, became a pivotal moment. Scarlett spoke to him openly about her passion for feminism and domestic violence advocacy.  

“He said that everyone in the community needs to hear about this. That was how I was able to get so many opportunities following that meeting,” Scarlett said. 

She also believes strongly in saying yes to new experiences, “I just put my hand up for everything. Don’t walk in with the expectation that you have to be perfect. Walk in hoping that you will learn something new.” 

Scarlett’s leadership philosophy centres strongly on representation and service, saying she never wanted to go into politics for power or authority, but to be a voice for others. This approach influences her role as Banksia House Captain, where she focuses on connection, and community building. She and her co‑captain Daniel have strengthened K to 12 celebrations during House meetings, created the weekly Year 12 Banksia Breakfast, and are planning mentoring initiatives for younger students. “In those early years of high school, it can be hard to make friends or bond together, but we want everyone to feel included,” she added. 

She says Grammar’s Strive to Lead program helped her understand what meaningful leadership looks like. She also speaks warmly of her teachers and their support. “Mrs Carson and Mrs Owen always tell me that I am going to do great things. Our whole class has been improving because of their encouragement.” 

Her advocacy broadened last year when she represented Grammar at the Model United Nations Assembly national finals in Canberra, where the team secured second place after an intense weekend of debate. The experience opened doors, strengthened her global awareness and connected her with like‑minded individuals. Scarlett has continued to build confidence through public speaking, including interviews on NBN News and ABC Canberra Radio. Looking ahead, this passionate community advocate hopes to pursue politics, law or international relations. 

“I would love to one day be sitting in the legislative assembly making decisions that benefit everyone. I always say that by 2040 I will be Prime Minister, or at least running for it,” she said.  

If her future leads elsewhere, she hopes to work within a community‑based NGO or another field where she can create positive change. 

Her advice to younger students is simple but sincere: “The worst thing someone can say to you is no. Never be afraid to speak up for what matters.”  

As she enters her final year at Grammar, Scarlett hopes to leave a legacy defined by positivity and purpose, inspiring other young people to find their own voice and use it well. 

You can watch Scarlett’s NBN News segment .