Leadership, determination, and the courage to step outside one’s comfort zone propelled Jack Barker to a major regional honour.

The 17-year-old Naracoorte High School Year 12 student and 2026 school captain has been named the Upper South East Lions Youth of the Year, a recognition that celebrates academic excellence, leadership, and public speaking ability among young people.

For Jack, the moment his name was announced was both emotional and deeply rewarding.

“It was a really rewarding moment when they read out my name as the winner of the competition,” he said.

“I felt very proud and honoured, especially given the high standard of competitors. Everyone involved in the competition brought something unique to the table, so to be recognised at that level was very humbling.

“Being told I received full marks in the public speaking aspect, along with the kind words of the judges really filled me with confidence heading into the next stage of the competition (district finals) in Yankalilla (held last weekend).” Jack won the public speaking award at the district finals.

Jack, who has grown up in Naracoorte, says being part of a close-knit regional community had shaped his journey.

“I’ve grown up in Naracoorte and really value being part of a close-knit regional community where there are plenty of opportunities like the Lion’s Youth of the Year.

“Definitely living in a town like Naracoorte, where you get to know a lot of the community, has helped me excel in school and sport.”

Academically driven, Jack is currently studying three demanding Stage Two subjects – Maths Methods, Specialist Maths, and Physics – while already having completed three Stage Two subjects in Year 11 with A+ grades.

He said his strong academic performance allowed him to dedicate more time to sport this year, where he remained active across several codes.

“I’ve been able to dedicate more time this year to my sporting interests, including football for Kybybolite (colts and seniors), basketball in Naracoorte and Mount Gambier, and golf on weekends,” he said.

Jack said his role as school captain encouraged him to take part in the Lions competition, but the opportunity also appealed to him personally.

“As one of the Naracoorte High School’s school captains for 2026, I was encouraged to participate in the competition, but I also saw it as a great opportunity to challenge myself,” he said.

“The competition seemed like a chance to develop skills beyond the classroom, particularly in leadership and public speaking.

“As a school captain, the competition also presented itself as a networking opportunity, allowing me to meet other motivated young people from across the region.”

Like many young people, Jack admits public speaking did not come naturally at first ? but perseverance and belief made the difference.

“Public speaking can definitely be intimidating, especially at the start,” he said.

“For me, confidence has come from practice and having the right people around me to support this journey.

“I believe this confidence also comes from being willing to step out of my comfort zone, just not really caring what the audience and people around me think and just speaking about things I am passionate about.

“Each time you speak, it becomes a little bit easier, and you start to trust in your ability more.

“This allowed me to realise that public speaking isn’t about being perfect but it’s about being yourself and backing your beliefs.”

Looking ahead, Jack has ambitious plans for his future.

“After finishing Year 12, I plan to study Mechanical Engineering through Flinders University while undertaking an apprenticeship in partnership with BAE Systems, one of the world’s leading defence and aerospace companies,” he said.

“This is a relatively new course, with limited spots available, that would help me gain practical and problem-solving hands-on engineering experience while completing my degree.”

While the award marks a significant personal achievement, Jack hopes his journey encourages other young people to step forward and try new opportunities.

“I’d say take every opportunity that comes your way and give it your best effort,” he said.

“It’s easy to doubt yourself and feel unsure, but you never really know what you’re capable of unless you try.

“I’ve definitely doubted myself at these competitions and questioned my place, but I have made it this far by believing in myself and giving it a go. Even if things don’t go perfectly, you’ll still gain valuable experience, confidence and the essential skills that benefit every aspect of your life.”

Jack said the achievement would not have been possible without the encouragement of those around him.

“I’m very grateful for the support I’ve received from Naracoorte High School, especially the senior school English teacher Gemma Borg, along with my family, and the Naracoorte Lions Club throughout this experience,” he said.

“Their encouragement has meant a lot and has helped me make the most of this opportunity.

“It’s truly been a really valuable experience, not just in terms of the competition, but in building my confidence and meeting other like-minded young people.”

This article appeared in The Naracoorte News, 15 April 2026.