Published on Thursday, 16 April 2026 at 9:08AM
This Youth Week, the Shire of Ashburton is proud to celebrate the strength of young people across our communities and a significant achievement for the region, with Pannawonica’s Community Development Officer, Maeson Harvey, appointed as a 2026 WA Youth Week Ambassador for the Department of Communities.
With nearly seven years’ experience in youth advocacy roles across Perth, his move to the Pilbara brought valuable experience and a strong commitment to amplifying regional youth voices at a state level.
As a Youth Week Ambassador, his role takes him across Western Australia, championing youth led events and sharing the diverse experiences of young people from regional communities.
“I see myself as a storyteller and an advocate - celebrating what makes young people and communities unique, while making sure regional experiences are part of the wider state conversation. Representing Pilbara young people is about ensuring local stories are not lost in city centric narratives.
"When I speak at a state level, I’m thinking about the creativity, resilience and community spirit found in places like Wickham, Onslow and Pannawonica, and making sure those stories are recognised as essential to WA’s youth identity,” he said.
Aligned with this year’s Youth Week theme, Strength in Our Stories, his focus remains on helping young people feel seen, valued and encouraged to step into creative and leadership opportunities within their own communities.
The Shire’s support of this Ambassador role reflects a strong commitment to youth leadership and regional representation across Western Australia.
Reflecting on the experience, he says:
“Being a Youth Week Ambassador in the Pilbara shows that you don’t have to live in the city to lead the conversation; your stories are just as powerful when they’re told from the red dirt.”
Meason continues to execute programs and events for the Pannawonica and Onslow communities, as well as being a trusted voice and leader for Ashburton young people.
Back to All News