Creative crew seeks young leaders

ENTHUSIASTIC, dedicated young people with initiative, creativity and a service mindset are encouraged to apply to be 2022 Sonika volunteers.

Funded by State Government program FReeZa and the City of Ballarat, Sonika is a youth committee made up of 12 to 25-year-old residents who plan and lead live performance, cultural, and recreational events in the community.

Youth development officer Maddison Hudson Stepnell said the team meets weekly, gaining hands-on creative industry experience and training, especially in the live music space.

“We offer intensive event management mentoring and networking opportunities,” she said.

“People who enjoy music, whether that’s through listening or performing, will be a good fit. Those interested in a career in events, live music, the broader music industry, the creative arts, or community services will also benefit from the program.

“PopCon, Sonika Records, the online Fully Sick Fest, and this month’s All-Ages Tour are just some of the events Sonika has led.”

Twenty-two-year-old Coralie Henderson is entering her third year as a Sonika member.

“I got involved to find new friends, and I have,” she said.

“The hands-on experience for events, and even training, is so much fun, and I’ve learned so much about how the music industry goes.

“Youth development is what I really want to go into professionally, and this is a great way to step into that.”

Applicants are required to live, work, or study within the City of Ballarat, be flexible to help at community events, attend training sessions, and at least 80 per cent of the weekly meetings.

Expressions of interest close this Monday, 14 February at 9am via bit.ly/bysvolunteer22.