Two Hume residents are among the winners of the 2021 Takeover Melbourne storytelling competition.
The competition showcases young storytellers from across the city.
Rudra Sekhri from South Morang and Bill Teuma from Craigieburn were among the 29 winners, with their stories set to be featured on the ABC.
Mr Sekhri, whose story was about his journey as an astronomer, said he was “extremely surprised and excited” to have his story chosen.
“Personally, I feel extremely grateful for the community around me that has supported me throughout all these years and helped me develop as an individual,” he said.
“Thanks to their support, I’ve been able to share my passion of astronomy [with] the rest of Australia and some of the concerns I have on the future of astronomy.
“As an astronomer working with researchers from the Swinburne University of Technology, I really wanted to share this story, and light pollution is something I was really inspired about.”
Mr Sekhri said it was important for other young people to get their messages they care about out into the community.
“Raise your story, no matter how big or how small, as it might inspire others around you and bring together a community,” he said.
Mr Teuma’s story was about his school experience. He said the win was “an honour that feels unreal to me”.
Details: abc.net.au/takeover
Michaela Meade
