A 12-year-old from Kallaroo, whose homelessness project has reached nearly 4,000 people in need, is among 24 young Western Australians who are finalists in the 2017 WA Youth Awards.
Vincent Pettinicchio was just seven years old when he devised Vincent’s Project for the Homeless as a distraction from being bullied.
Inspired by seeing people living on the streets of Perth, Vincent began providing them packs of toiletries and comfort items.
Vincent now uses his spare time to speak at different parishes, rotary clubs, corporate events and schools to raise awareness about the homeless. He has gained ongoing support from a number of major corporations.
The WA Youth Awards showcase the achievements and contributions of young Western Australians aged 12 to 25, as well as organisations that work with and support WA youth.
Eight organisations that work with youth are also finalists. One individual category winner will be named WA’s Young Person of the Year at the State Theatre Centre on October 12, 2017.