By Lucy Waldron
Toowoomba’s own Edward Ross has been named the 7NEWS 2024 Queensland Young Achiever of the Year, marking a significant milestone in his relentless dedication to transforming mental health awareness, particularly within the blue-collar community.
Amidst a competitive field of nominees, Edward emerged victorious for his efforts in shifting the cultural dialogue surrounding mental health.
Recognised on stage by Kim Richards MP, representing Minister Meaghan Scanlon, Edward’s win underscores the growing recognition of mental health advocacy as a crucial societal endeavour.
Since its inception in 2016, the Young Achiever Awards have served as a platform for acknowledging and promoting the positive endeavours of young people up to 30 years old.
The awards ceremony, held on 19 April and hosted by Samantha Heathwood at Royal on the Park, Brisbane, celebrated Edward’s groundbreaking initiatives, including his co-founding of TradeMutt Workwear and TIACS.org.
TradeMutt’s vibrant workwear designs serve as catalysts for conversation, challenging stigma and fostering openness about mental health issues. Meanwhile, TIACS.org provides accessible Telehealth counselling services tailored specifically to the needs of blue-collar workers, offering support via text and calls.
Edward’s leadership has propelled TradeMutt’s exponential growth, facilitating support for over 4557 clients and amassing a market value of $809,300 in services.
His advocacy has not only raised awareness but also directly addressed critical gaps in mental health support for vulnerable communities.
In addition to a prestigious trophy, Edward and fellow winners received mentoring packages from Jess Taylor Consulting, further cementing their status as emerging leaders in their respective fields.
The culmination of a tremendously successful year, the Young Achiever Awards spotlighted the remarkable achievements and contributions of Queensland’s young talent.
Edward’s recognition highlights the vital role young leaders play in driving social change and addressing pressing issues like mental health with innovation and determination.
The other successful winners are:
Ally Zlatar – Soroptimist International Women Empowering Others Award
Gullara Mcinnes – Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award
Aurora Iler – Queensland Family and Child Commission Contribution to Community or Family Safety Award
Edward Ross – The University of Queensland Create Change Award
Daniel Rosendale – Queensland Family and Child Commission First Nations Youth Advocacy Award
Kurt Jones – Spirit Super Connecting Communities Award
Natalie Durack – 360 Degrees Marketing Career Achievement Award
Natascha Tennent – Special Event Presentations Sporting Achievement Whilst Overcoming Adversity Award
Prince Lo – Awards Australia Foundation Diversity and Inclusion Award
