Youth Ambassadors
The NRL Indigenous Youth Summit is an annual initiative that brings together high school students from across Australia and New Zealand for a week of cultural learning, leadership development and educational experiences.
In 2025, the nib Newcastle Knights were proud to have four Hunter Region students selected to represent the region and the Club. Proud Kamilaroi girl Kyarla Usher, Dunghutti girl Laura Chang, Dunghutti and Gumbayngirr boy David Scholes, and Gomeroi and Anaiwan boy Yaegan Faulkner joined 68 Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori young people on Darkinjung Country for the Summit.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in cultural learning and leadership activities, developing skills and experiences to take back to their schools and communities. The students demonstrated strong leadership and cultural pride while building meaningful connections with peers from across Australia and New Zealand.Through her outstanding commitment and leadership, Laura Chang was selected as one of the top four ambassadors at the 2025 Indigenous Youth Summit. As part of this recognition, Laura has been invited to attend the 2026 NRL All Stars program in New Zealand, where she will participate in a week of cultural immersion and leadership experiences.
Real Stories
Caring For Our Port Stephens Youth (COPSY)
Creating a space for young people to talk to highly qualified counsellors and psychologists, The Wests Group clubGRANTS scheme has generously donated a total of $15,000
Driving Hope and Healing
Supporting the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation through the ClubGRANTS program
Helping Vulnerable Communities
The Wests Group is proud to contribute $25,000 to support The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal
Building the Future of Women’s Rugby League Through Research
The nib Newcastle Knights are proud to partner with the University of Newcastle on a pioneering National Industry PhD
Supporting Lifeline
Over the years, we've proudly donated to Lifeline Hunter through our ClubGRANTs program. Last year, we contributed $35,000 to aid their local services and perpetuate their positive impact on our community.
Two Million Reasons to Smile
The Wests Group has committed $2 million to Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW to support the “Building a Bigger Heart” expansion.