Mario Filintatzis

“Human rights are in place to protect us from discrimination, and to support equality. They should be protected regardless of religion, race, gender, physical limitations, ethnicity and social status.”

Mario was born with Spina Bifida and so his passion and drive for human rights and equality – especially for people with disabilities – is something he takes very seriously.

“At a young age I defied the odds and proved myself to many people who doubted that I was ready for mainstream schooling,” says Mario. “I have often found myself having to protect my human rights from a young age and even advocate for others who have felt that their rights have been violated.”

Upon finishing Secondary School, Mario was named Yooralla’s Young Ambassador which involved spreading the word about equality, disability advocacy and human rights to business, carers, people with disabilities and school students. He is currently studying Disability Work, and has taken on many advocacy projects with Victoria’s Youth Disability Advocacy Service.

“Human rights to me are the basic rights that we are all entitled to as humans,” says Mario. “I believe it is important for all young people to stand up for their rights and be aware of what their rights are.”

Mario was nominated by the Youth Disability Advocacy Service.