The award, named in honour of the late inaugural chairman of the Australian Youth Trust, recognises the outstanding contribution of a young Australian (aged between 15 and 30) who has assisted in the development of other young people and their families by providing better opportunities either through literacy, education and/or employment programs.

Paul, a Nowra-based solicitor at RMB Lawyers, is a former Learning for Life recipient and supporter of The Smith Family and VIEW Clubs of Australia.

He was presented with the award on behalf of the Australia Youth Trust by NSW Governor David Hurley at a NSW Parliament House luncheon commemorating Commonwealth Day.

As an ambassador for the Smith Family and Learning for Life programs for many years he has travelled the state speaking to different audiences about the power of education to overcome disadvantage.

And he can speak from first hand experience - inspired by his own background - Paul was raised by his grandparents in East Nowra, attending the local public school and then Shoalhaven High School where he was year 12 dux in 2008.

He then studied law at the University of Wollongong, achieving a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce, graduating in 2015. He also gained a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practices from the Australian National University.

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While studying at university he was involved in various clubs and societies and student advocate including serving as the chair of the Student Representative Forum.

In December 2015 he was admitted as a solicitor in the Supreme Court of NSW, joining a local law firm, becoming a member of the Real Estate and Estate Planning division.

In 2011 he was also recognised for his involvement in local charities and community causes when he was awarded the Shoalhaven Young Citizen of the Year.

More  recently he was also elected to serve as the graduate representative on the University Council, the peak governing body of UOW.

Paul said he was humbled and honoured to receive the award, speaking with passion and from the heart, of his thanks to The Smith Family and VIEW Clubs of Australia saying he would not be where he is today without the support of their Learning for Life Program.

“This is a huge honour,” he said.

“Winning this award is a great example of the support The Smith Family and their Learning for Life Program gives disadvantaged Australian children.

“Due to a family break down I was living with my grandparents, who were both on pensions. They struggled financially with the extra costs, especially as I headed into high school.

“The Smith Family supported me tremendously from the age of 12.

“Its support ensured I was able to do everything that every other student was able too.

“I was able to go on excursions, was given direct financial support that allowed me to access things like computers, resources and uniforms.

“It was a real shot in the arm and allowed me to follow my dreams.”

He acknowledged the role VIEW also plays in supporting The Smith Family and its programs.

“Like many other children, there is now nearly 40,000 around Australia who have been helped by the Learning for Life program, I was given a chance to achieve my dreams and goals through their education support,” he said.

“That help has inspired and driven me to give back.”

He is a regular guest speaker at local groups and organisations, including a number of VIEW Clubs, where he has been able to show just how far members’ supports extend.

“I think the first VIEW Club I spoke at was at Ulladulla in 2010. I was so nervous. But it was great to be able to demonstrate that the support VIEW offers to The Smith Family does make a difference.” he said.

“VIEW is a critical partner with The Smith Family. Through the fundraising and dedication of its members, who put in so much time to help kids just like me, changes are made.

“I have made it my mission in life to go back and thank those members for what they do and make sure they realise their efforts are appreciated and go a long way - I’m living proof.

“The programs do allow kids to live and fulfill their dreams.”