Mischa Warwick, a student at St Michael’s Primary School, Kaleen was awarded the Children’s Commissioner’s Award at the ACT Children’s Week awards ceremony for her advocacy for sustainable living.

At just 11 years old, Mischa is passionate about protecting the environment and shows compassion for both people and animals. She regularly volunteers at Little Oak Sanctuary and Lucky Stars Sanctuary; she participated in the Vinnie’s Doorknock Appeal; and runs an Instablog, ‘The Green Tween’, to raise awareness of animal welfare and environmental issues.

Public Advocate, and Children and Young People Commissioner, Jodie Griffiths-Cook presented Mischa with her award and in her speech said that Mischa was someone who exemplifies ‘leading by example’.

“It is a privilege and honour to give Mischa my award,’ said Ms Griffiths-Cook. “She is someone who we can all learn from and someone who is already making a difference in the world.”

Patrick Ellis, Principal of St Michael’s Primary School, Kaleen, said that Mischa is an inspiration to others as she thinks outside the box and is not content to go along with the status quo. 

Mr Ellis described Mischa as an influencer, providing an example where she wrote to him explaining why the process of bringing baby chickens in for preschoolers to learn about life cycles was not good for the chickens themselves. Mischa presented a compelling argument that convinced Mr Ellis to stop bringing in chickens and change to tadpoles instead.

“Mischa is someone who ensures there is substance behind anything she brings forward. She is an exceptional young lady who is passionate about making a difference when it comes to animal welfare and the environment,” he said. “Her level of commitment is something I haven’t come across in a long time.”

Congratulations Mischa!