An Ezidi girl has been honoured at the Coffs Harbour Australian Citizen of the Year Awards 2026, held on 30 January in Australia. Mayada Oso received the Young Citizen of the Year award, a recognition of her journey from genocide survivor to an active and respected contributor in her new country.
Mayada arrived in Australia in 2018 as a refugee after surviving the Ezidi genocide carried out by ISIS. She had escaped captivity and severe abuse and started life again in a place where everything was unfamiliar, including the language. Despite this, she learned English, worked hard at school, and in 2023 graduated from Orara High School as School Captain, a role that reflects trust, leadership, and responsibility.
Today, Mayada works as a Student Learning Support Officer, helping students with their education and daily school life. Her work supports children who need extra help, and her commitment shows a desire to give back after everything she has been through.
This award is not only about personal success. It is also about visibility. Mayada Oso’s story reminds the world that Ezidis will continue to rebuild, contribute, and stand strong, no matter what.
