2023 Young Citizen of the Year, Erika Mae Lu

Erika arrived in Darwin as an international high school student from the Philippines. Erika studied at Darwin High School before going on to continue her education at Charles Darwin University and then becoming an Australian citizen in 2019.

One of Erika’s missions whilst studying, living and working in the Northern Territory has been “to help and inspire young people to step out of their comfort zone, conquer their goals, and empower others to do the same”. Erika has volunteered her time with the Starlight Children’s Foundation, Answering the Cry of the Poor (ANCOP), Charles Darwin University’s Career Centre, the Filipino-Australian Association NT, Kindness Shake, and Rotaract Young Professional NT, of which she is a founding member and an executive director. Erika also works as a business analyst with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade.

Erika has said that she is “honoured to represent Filipino-Australians. I share this recognition with all of them. My story is similar to many hardworking Filipino students, parents and families who grabbed opportunities here in Australia or other countries to support their loved ones and accomplish their dreams.”

“Are you wondering how you can also support a cause you are passionate about, make a difference in the lives of others, or have a skill you wish to share? Whatever your reason for volunteering is, let’s have a chat!” Get in touch with Erika through her LinkedIn profile.