At just 12 years old, Melanie Tzoukas has been recognised as a leader and role model in her community, taking home the Rising Star title at this year’s Randwick Volunteer Recognition Awards.
The youngest of four children, Melanie has spent the past four years volunteering and fundraising for a range of causes, inspired by her siblings Evan, Jonathan and Tiana.
Her mother, Patrisia, said Melanie’s drive reflects those role models. “She’s grown up watching them push themselves, give back, and achieve big goals, and she’s taken it all in.”
After losing a beloved aunt to cancer, Melanie followed her sister Tiana in raising money for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.
This year, she combined her passion for dance with fundraising, joining Dance for Sick Kids to support Ronald McDonald House Charities. Dancing every day for a week, she raised $8,150, the second highest total nationally.
“When I saw the total amount I had raised, I was amazed and proud to have successfully fundraised for such a meaningful cause,” Melanie said.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that these funds will directly support families with seriously ill children who truly need it.”
Patrisia described her daughter as having a “quiet inner strength” and a natural ability to lead. “She doesn’t wait to be asked… she just sees a need and steps up – not loudly, but with calm confidence and care.”
For Melanie, the award is just the beginning. Whether it’s volunteering, raising awareness or lending a hand, she says she’s ready to help wherever she can.
