On Monday November 25, Ava was awarded the National Young Historian of the Year at the National Awards Ceremony for the National History Challenge at Parliament House! There were over 6500 entries across all high school years in the country, and Ava's work was recognised by judges as the best historical piece in Australia.

This Heroes interview was originally featured in the 'Space Is The Place' 2024 issue of K-Zone.

KZ: Hi Ava! How did you find out about the National History Challenge?

A: My school has been a part of the National History Challenge for the last few years. I entered my first project in Year 5, and then in Year 6 my entry won. I took part in this challenge because I enjoy researching past events and finding creative ways to present what I discover. I chose to research gender equality for Australian women in sport. I explored how this has changed over the last 150 years and highlighted some of the challenges that women experienced. I looked into the Matildas and the impact they have had on young girls in sport today. I am passionate about women in sport, and I want to see change for the future.

KZ: What did you create for your entry?

A: I created a 10-minute video, which I narrated. It included pictures, clips, graphs, and an interview with my teacher Susan Andrews, who participated in the 1992 and 2000 Olympic Games. Yes, she did run with Cathy Freeman! I worked on my project for about three months in my spare time. I used video editing software called Lightworks to pull together the parts of my project. I had never used a program like this before, so I learned many new video-making skills, like zooming in and out on pictures, and transitioning between clips. I was very surprised to learn how much society’s attitude towards women playing sport has changed over time. Women used to have to fight for their right to play sport with very little support. Their sporting achievements were even shown in the social section of the newspaper, separate to the men’s! So much has changed over the last few decades. In sports like tennis and soccer, women’s pay has risen dramatically, and they are now treated more equally.

KZ: How did you feel when your submission was chosen as a State Winner in two categories, and then as the ‘Year 5/6 Level’ National Winner?

A: I was very excited when I found out that I was the State Winner for my age group. It wasn’t until the State Ceremony (with the Premier) that I was announced as the winner of the Sports category as well, which was a complete surprise! Later, I was called to the principal’s office and told that I was the Year 5/6 National Winner!

KZ: How did you feel while attending the medal ceremony?

A: I had never met the Premier before, so I felt excited and nervous. It was an honour to be presented with my awards.

KZ: Why should K-Zoners enter the challenge?

A: The National History Challenge is a great opportunity for kids to research a topic of their interest and put their own spin on it. I love that the competition allows you to be creative in the way you present your entry. I would encourage everyone to have a go - even if your project starts small, you will learn a lot along the way.

The National History Challenge closes August 25, 2025! For more info, visit www.historychallenge.org.au!

If you're between 6 and 13 years old, you can submit an entry for the Heroes page!

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