She spoke about her experiences in leaving home at a young age and how, through facing the challenges of living independently, she came to value what parents provided.

Her story will be broadcast on ABC radio, along with Hobart's Ella Hind, who was the other Tasmanian winner.

She spoke about finding the positives in all situations.

Ms Hind was born without half her right arm, but can do just about everything that people with two hands can do, including cooking, driving and playing guitar.

Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Sid Sidebottom congratulated the two Tasmanian winners during an address to summit participants in Canberra.

``This is a wonderful opportunity for both Ella and Rachel, who will represent the interests and aspirations of young Tasmanians as they share and develop ideas to strengthen regional communities,'' he said.