Encounter student wins prestigious Teen Parliament scholarship
By Julian Schubert | Marketing & Communications Manager
Encounter Lutheran College is proud to celebrate Year 11 student Charlie Richards, who has been named a recipient of The Advertiser’s Teen Parliament 2026 Scholarship, following his participation in the program at the South Australian Parliament House.
Charlie was one of 30 students from Years 10 to 12 across South Australia selected to take part in the Teen Parliament initiative, which provides young people with the opportunity to debate real issues impacting the future of the state and present innovative solutions in a parliamentary setting.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution, Charlie was awarded one of only ten $10,000 scholarships, with recipients chosen for the strength of their ideas, quality of their presentations and demonstrated leadership throughout the program.
During his address, Charlie explored the economic challenges facing South Australia, particularly the loss of value, jobs and economic control resulting from exporting natural resources and re-importing them as finished products. He proposed a forward-thinking solution: a state-backed digital manufacturing network in partnership with South Australian schools. His concept outlined how high schools could operate as local production hubs, equipped with technologies such as 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters and professional design software to support local businesses, create job pathways and reduce reliance on overseas supply chains.
Charlie described the experience as highly rewarding and encouraged other students to take part in opportunities that allow them to speak up on issues that matter and contribute to shaping the future of their communities.
Principal Kelvin Grivell said the College was immensely proud of Charlie’s achievement and the way he represented the school.
“Charlie’s success at Teen Parliament reflects his initiative, leadership and commitment to making a meaningful contribution to society. This is a significant accomplishment and a wonderful example of student voice in action.”
Encounter Lutheran College congratulates Charlie on this exceptional achievement and for representing the College and the South Coast community with distinction.
Photos courtesy of The Advertiser
Encounter Lutheran College acknowledges the Ramindjeri people of the Ngarrindjeri Country as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
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