It’s probably an opinion held by each older generations throughout the years.

Yes, there are pockets – a minority – who seem to give the up-and-coming generation of city leaders a bad rap. This minority – the squeaky wheel – are the ones who seem to constantly receive the media attention for their wrong-doings.

But the majority of our current youth are the complete opposite … respectful, hard-working, passionate about their causes and we should be proud of that.

Take Lamourette Folly (pictured) for example. At the age of 19, the aspiring journalist, dentist and Phoenix P-12 Community College year 12 graduate, on Friday was awarded the City of Ballarat Young Leader Award at the 2015 Youth Awards.

Ms Folly’s award was for her commitment to Ballarat, a community which embraced her and her family seven years ago when they moved from a West African refugee camp.

Ms Folly is a member of, and volunteers with CMY Youth Advisory Group, Ballarat African Association, City of Ballarat Youth Council, VMC Grampians Advisory committee and Phoenix College Student leadership program. She has also helped design programs such as CMY Grampians Youth UnConference and Happy Place. She is also the founder of a new dance troupe called Zion Girls.

She said inspiring young people in smaller cities like Ballarat was important as they could have a big outreach as they grew older and travelled.

Ms Folly was just one of 14 young Ballarat to be recognised on Friday night. This year there was a record 87 nominations, all inspirational and worthy nominees in categories including visual design, community safety, challenge and change, leadership, positive youth, young carer, sports, performing arts, volunteering, group and projects.

Every year, the City of Ballarat Youth Awards recognises our wonderful local youth who make a unique and positive contribution to life in Ballarat.

If the calibre of these nominees and the respective category winners is anything to go by, Ballarat is, indeed, in good hands for the future.