Jarib Branfield-Bradshaw
For creating culturally safe spaces and providing support for young people in his community.
About this finalist
- Year: 2025
- Level: Finalist
- Award category: Young People's Award
About the 2025 nomination
Jarib is a 21-year-old Guwamu/Kooma man who grew up in Cunnamulla, a small community in outback Queensland of 1200 people.. After commencing in a youth support role at the Paroo Shire Council in 2023, Jarib quickly noticed the need for young people to have somewhere safe to go in the community after school. Jarib pitched the idea of conveying an empty council building into a community centre, which he had up and running within the month. Jarib described his work as centring on creating culturally safe spaces for young people—especially those navigating systems not built for them.
He runs a local neighbourhood centre, has provided support to over 200 young people, and works across his community, in keynotes and in Parliament to elevate youth voices. Jarib’s work is shaped by lived experience, cultural pride, and a deep belief that no young person is too far gone. He has received multiple national recognitions for his impact, but says the real reward is seeing a young person smile again. His mission is simple: to be the one person he once needed growing up.
About the Human Rights Awards
The Australian Human Rights Awards is an inspirational showcase of the best in all of us. The Awards honour and celebrate diverse human rights heroes and significant achievements in protecting and promoting human rights in Australia.