The capital city of Canberra is brimming with young talent, and the latest reveal of The Canberra Times’ 30 under-30 list highlights ten of the most inspiring individuals. These young Canberrans are making significant impacts across various fields, from sports and activism to arts and media.
Among the final ten are a United Nations representative, two Canberra Raiders players, a housing advocate, and a climate activist. Their stories reflect a commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Champions of Change and Advocacy
Satara Uthayakumaran, a law student at the Australian National University (ANU), is Australia’s Youth Representative to the United Nations for 2025. Her role has taken her across the country, collecting stories from young Australians, including those in detention, to present at the UN General Assembly. Her work underscores the importance of youth voices in global discussions.
Howard Maclean, nominated for the 2026 ACT Young Australian of the Year, is a prominent housing advocate. As the founder of Greater Canberra, Maclean champions affordable housing and sustainable urban planning. His efforts aim to address the “missing middle” in housing, pushing for low-rise, medium-density developments.
Trailblazers in Sports and Entertainment
Grace Kemp, a dual-code rugby star, has become a fixture in the Canberra Raiders’ inaugural NRLW season. Starting her career in rugby union, Kemp’s transition to rugby league has seen her excel, earning selections for NSW and the Indigenous All Stars.
Hudson Young, another standout from the Raiders, is not only a top-tier back-rower but also a budding entrepreneur with his brand, Young Supplements. His dedication to sports and business exemplifies the diverse talents of Canberra’s youth.
In the realm of entertainment, Nathalie Morris shines as a Canberra-born actor starring in the popular drama “Bump.” Her journey from the Canberra Youth Theatre to international recognition highlights the city’s nurturing environment for the arts.
Innovators and Visionaries
Abbey Best has captivated audiences with her urban exploration videos, showcasing abandoned sites around Canberra. Her respectful approach to this unconventional hobby has garnered a significant following on social media.
Anton Steinhauser, a recent high school graduate, achieved an impressive ATAR of 99.95. His academic excellence in subjects like physics and chemistry sets the stage for his future studies in quantum physics, an area filled with “many unknowns” that intrigue him.
Artist and designer Tilda Joy has left her mark on Questacon’s Mini-Q with her imaginative designs. A graduate of ANU’s School of Art & Design, Joy’s work is a testament to the creative potential fostered in Canberra.
Voices of the Future
Anjali Sharma, a climate activist and ANU law student, has been a formidable force in environmental advocacy since her teenage years. Her proposed Duty of Care Bill seeks to ensure government accountability in climate-related decisions, emphasizing the health of future generations.
Finally, Keely Gay, a rising star in radio, has made her mark on Canberra’s airwaves. From starting as a sales coordinator to becoming a key member of Hit104.7’s on-air team, Gay’s journey is a testament to her dedication and talent in the media industry.
These ten young Canberrans exemplify the spirit of innovation, resilience, and leadership. Their contributions not only enhance the local community but also set a benchmark for youth across Australia. As they continue to forge their paths, the future looks promising with such inspiring individuals leading the way.
