New TEAM raises youth profile

TOGETHER Enhancing the Achievements of Many, Ballarat Youth Services’ new community committee for young people is seeking contributors.

City of Ballarat youth development officer Bridget Franc said BYS is encouraging 12 to 25 year olds to express their interest in the TEAM committee, which will empower young people to be leaders in their community and create opportunities for their peers.

“Through our working group, we’re looking to raise the profile of our local youth, and promote health and wellbeing for them, through targeted initiatives,” she said.

“We’re wanting to create opportunities for them to thrive, and they will design, develop and lead community events directed at young people.”

Those involved will determine what training they would like the undertake, to achieve the skills they desire, whether in the leadership, events, creative workshop, marketing, or media spaces.

“We want to listen to them and let them drive this program. We’re going to build this committee with their ideas,” Ms Franc said.

“We have supports from City of Ballarat, our Youth Services team and other community organisations to help upskill and support these young people to thrive.”

One of the TEAM committee’s projects will be driving and leading the 2021 Ballarat Youth Awards.

Alongside improving their public speaking and confidence to present on the night, they will be the voices of the event’s media promotion.

“We’re giving them the skills and tools they need to be in the spotlight. They’ll also have the opportunity to form new friendships, develop personally or use their community-mindedness or leadership skills.

“This is giving them a really safe platform to explore and identify where their skills lie, influence and contribute to the community, challenge themselves, and find career pathway opportunities and networks,” Ms Franc said.

Expressions of interest close on Friday, 12 March. Visit linktr.ee/ballaratyouthservices.