At just 18 years old, Tayla Young has accomplished more than most of us would have at the same age and she’s only too eager to face her next challenge.
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Tayla was awarded the ‘Young Citizen of the Year’ at the 2019 Australia Day Ceremony in Gulgong held on January 26, and she couldn’t be more thrilled with the recognition.
Tayla spoke with the Mudgee Guardian about what motivates her to succeed and what’s next for the Australia Day award recipient.
How did it feel to be nominated?
“Amazing. I was away when the letter was delivered and so I found out right before my Physical Aptitude test for the Army which gave me a huge boost.”
You're a busy person. Tell us about all the things that you do that you think contributed to your win.
“I’m not entirely sure which were referred to in my nomination application but so far I’ve completed my Gold duke of Edinburgh award, a voyage abroad the Young Endeavour, a 2 year school based traineeship at CBA -resulting in two Trainee of the Year nominations,”
“In addition to my 5 years at 205 Army Cadet Unit as the senior cadet leader in the rank of Cadet Under Officer. I’ve also participated in a cultural immersion project in Kununurra, a small town in Western Australia,”
“Whether or not these all contributed to the award, I believe the experience and growth has lead me to my success.”
What was your first reaction when you found out you had won?
“I was very excited and a little overwhelmed by the whole crowd on the day. Although I was nervous I was so happy and so proud to be standing with such an amazing group of local people,”
“I was also so proud to have met such an inspirational person; being David Hall and to listen to his address on the day.”
You're obviously a very focused person, what drives Tayla in life?
“Generally it’s a curiosity. I love to meet new people and experience new things,”
“The satisfaction at the end and the excitement and support from my family and peers is a huge driving factor in my success so to be awarded Young Citizen of the Year in my home town amongst family and friends was a big thing for me.”
Is joining the army the next step in that philosophy? Is it the 'next big challenge'?
“Yes. I have always been interested in the army and the lifestyle. I love the idea of always moving and doing new things,”
“So to be offered an officers position as well as a bachelor of business with honours at UNSW was arguably the big decision and commitment to date.”
Is there ever any hesitation when trying something new?
“No. Not really. I’ve absolutely loved all of my experiences.”
What would you to say to everyone that's supported you up to this point?
“I would love to express my gratitude to everyone that has helped me get to this point in life, especially my family and friends, without their endless support I would not be who I am today and so I thank them for that every day.”