Emilia, who turned 23 today, is currently completing a Bachelor of Laws and International Relations and a Diploma in Languages (Indonesian) at La Trobe.
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar warmly congratulated Emilia on her success.
“This is an extraordinary achievement by one of our most driven students who has dedicated herself to her community and improving the lives of others – not only through her work for Whittlesea Council but also her commitment as a volunteer,” Professor Dewar said.
“The entire La Trobe community congratulates Emilia for this recognition of her exceptional talent and devotion to public service.”
Councillor Emilia Lisa Sterjova was first elected as a City of Whittlesea Councillor in November 2016 – Whittlesea’ youngest ever Councillor. She was Deputy Mayor from November 2017-18.
In announcing the Mayoral result, Emilia said, “I hope to inspire other young people to realise that age is not a barrier,” she said.
“I hope women realise that their gender is an asset, not a disadvantage…I want to inspire, to challenge and to create positive change.”
