An 11-year-old student from Western Australia has been recognised on a national stage for his exceptional kindness and community spirit, winning a prestigious humanitarian award.
Young Leader Honoured in Sydney
Nate May, a Year 6 student and head boy at Mandurah Baptist College, has been awarded the Fred Hollows Foundation Humanity Award and announced as the foundation's WA Junior Ambassador. The young leader travelled to Sydney with his mother, Demi, and the school's Head of Primary, Tracey Richmond, for the award ceremony held at The University of Sydney in November 2025.
Nate, who was nominated for the award by his teacher Sulona Lomax earlier in the year, described the experience as a huge honour. "It was such a huge honour and shock to win such an amazing award," Nate said. "I just hope it helps spread more awareness for kids to be kind and become more involved in our community."
Embracing the Spirit of Fred Hollows
Gabi Hollows, the founding director of The Fred Hollows Foundation, explained that Nate was chosen as the WA Junior Ambassador because his significant contributions to the Mandurah community perfectly align with the foundation's values. She highlighted his embodiment of the compassion and leadership that Fred Hollows himself believed in.
"Nate truly embodies the spirit of compassion and leadership that Fred believed in," Ms Hollows said. "His dedication to helping others and inspiring his peers shows that even at a young age, anyone can make a real difference. We are so proud to recognise Nate because he represents hope for a kinder, more generous future."
Corporate Support for a Global Mission
The Fred Hollows Humanity Awards were supported by Specsavers, which demonstrated a significant commitment to the foundation's cause. The company donated $50,000 on behalf of the Junior Ambassadors and the Humanitarian of the Year. This generous contribution will aid the foundation in its ongoing global mission to end avoidable blindness, continuing the legacy of its founder.
