Axel named NRL Young Leader of the year
The Canberra Raiders have congratulated Goulburn man Axel Wellings on being named the NRL School to Work Young Leader of the Year for 2025.
The award recognises outstanding Indigenous youth who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and strong academic or career potential.
A proud Wiradjuri man, Wellings was captain of Mulwaree High School in 2024 and led initiatives supporting Indigenous students.
Little Yarns reading program
Since graduating, he has served as an NRL Youth Ambassador, been selected for the NSW Parliament Young Aboriginal Leaders Program, and helped establish the Little Yarns reading program to promote literacy and cultural pride.
Wellings said he hopes to inspire future generations to create their own opportunities and be proud of their culture.
NRL School to Work is an Education and Employment Program Supporting Indigenous Youths since 2012.
Supported by 11 teams
The NRL utilises the positive profile of the game of Rugby League to support young Indigenous Australians with work experience, mentoring and leadership opportunities to ensure they successfully complete school and transition into further study, training or meaningful employment.
The program is supported by eleven NRL Clubs from across Australia.
Canberra Raiders, Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, Cronulla Sharks, Melbourne Storm, Newcastle Knights, Parramatta Eels, Penrith Panthers, St George Illawarra Dragons, Sydney Roosters, Gold Coast Titans and the Wests Tigers.
