October's One Wyndham recipient Aanchal Sharma passionately encourages girls, women and gender diverse people to play any sport they choose and ardently advocates for gender disparity for all.
Ms Sharma experienced gendered negativity and disparaging comments in primary school when she wanted to play table tennis. This personal experience led Ms Sharma to challenge the gendered stereotypes and champion gender equity.
Ms Sharma pursued her passion to play table tennis and was selected in the Under 17's President State Table Tennis Team, representing Victoria at the national finals in Brisbane, Queensland.
Wyndham Mayor Cr Adele Hegedich said: "Ms Sharma is highly motivated young woman who actively participates in extra curricula school and community activities to fundraise and help those in need."
"She is positive, enthusiastic, hard-working and an inspiring role model for students and strives to give back to the Wyndham community."
"Ms Sharma is making a positive difference in our community by encouraging young people to believe in themselves, build their self-esteem and promote positive mental health."
Ms Sharma said: "The pandemic has impacted on young people's mental health. Feelings of depression and anxiety are linked to low self-esteem and self-confidence."
"I am raising awareness about youth mental health so that young people feel empowered to reach out to others."
One Wyndham recipients are residents aged between 12 and 25 who positively contribute to the Wyndham community and are role models to other young people.
Each month Council selects a Wyndham resident to be awarded the 'young person of the month'.
Winners are awarded a $200 gift voucher of their choice and other prizes.
Ms Sharma is studying year 10 at Suzanne Cory High School.
