City of Canning supporting local youth with scholarship opportunities

The City of Canning is proud to announce the recipient of the 2026 Young Australia League (YAL) Connect Post Secondary Scholarship.

Emily, a local Canning resident, will commence a Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery at Edith Cowan University in 2026. A motivated and compassionate student, Emily aspires to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable infants and their families, guided by strong values of care, community and service.

Since 2024, the City of Canning has partnered with YAL to deliver the YAL Connect Post Secondary Scholarship, building on the foundations established through the City’s Youth Engagement Framework (2022–2024), which has since been embedded across the organisation.

Through the program, young people are supported as they transition from secondary school into further education. The program provides tailored one on one mentorship with a dedicated youth worker, alongside $8000 in flexible financial support to help overcome barriers that can limit access to post-secondary study.

Mayor Patrick Hall said the scholarship reflects the City’s commitment to investing in young people and their future.

“Emily’s determination, resilience and strong sense of care for others truly stood out,”

“This scholarship is about more than financial support. It’s about doing what we can to help local young people with potential make a positive difference in our community. As the only Western Australian city recognised as a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, the City of Canning is deeply committed to supporting opportunities for lifelong learning, from early years through to adulthood. Supporting Emily is just one example of how we invest in learners at every stage of life.” Mayor Hall said.

Emily has demonstrated outstanding academic dedication, leadership and resilience, shaped through both personal challenges and school-based programs. Raised in a single parent household, she has navigated ongoing financial pressures and previously balanced casual employment with her studies. Prioritising her mental health and academic success, Emily has said that the scholarship has helped with easing on financial strain, allowing her to focus fully on her university studies and long-term career goals.

YAL Connect provides a valuable pathway for young people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their educational ambitions through flexible financial assistance and mentorship. A not-for-profit organisation established in 1905, YAL continues to support young Australians through scholarships, mentoring and social connection, creating opportunities for them to grow and reach their full potential.

The City of Canning congratulates Emily on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to seeing her future contributions to the community through her studies and career in nursing and midwifery.