Her Excellency Prof Marie Bashir AC CVO Governor of NSW awarded Alyson for her volunteer work with the Ulladulla Youth Centre's dance and drama program.

The young achiever was the outstanding winner of her nominated category, Chosen Careers.

Alyson was presented her NSW Department of Housing Volunteer Award trophy at a formal ceremony at Powerhouse Museum in Sydney last week.

Alyson was entered into the awards by Youth Centre leaders Jody Quinnell and Mark Ettridge, in recognition of her fantastic commitment to the young people who use the centre.

"Ulladulla Youth Centre management and staff are very proud of Alyson's achievements with the dance and drama program," Jody said.

"Alyson's interest and passion has ensured a fantastic opportunity for young people and is an excellent example of a young person making a positive contribution to her community," Mark added.

The inspirational young woman has had to overcome an unsettled childhood through foster homes and refuges and now puts all her energy into encouraging others.

"Awards like this show me there is recognition for young people that make an effort to make a change in their community," Alyson said.

"It's good to know that my time and my dedication to the youth centre is valued.

"The support of youth workers Mark and Jody has also showed both my students and myself, that when someone believes in you, you can make a difference," she said.

"I was really pampered throughout my stay in Sydney," Alyson, whose driving-force to help young people came about through her own adversity, told the Times.

Alyson's passion arose after teaching dance at a local studio and noticing a real need within the community for a place to train youth in drama and dance without any significant cost.

"I didn't want young people to miss out on anything because of their family situation, background or any other prejudice that may prevent them," Alyson explained.