Fresh funding presents prospects for region’s youth

THE City of Greater Bendigo and local grassroots outreach organisation Hiphopportunities For Youth have recently welcomed grants aimed at “inspiring the next generation of leaders” via the Victorian government backed Engage! and FReeZA initiatives.

The grants provide three-year funding to community organisations, local governments and social enterprises to deliver programs that foster engagement, skill-building, and leadership opportunities for young Victorians.

COGB will receive $120,000 from FReeZA for its popular YO Events initiative.

The youth-led program equips marginalised young people with life skills, fosters self-confidence

and strengthens community connections by enabling them to plan, develop, and deliver creative arts, music, and cultural events across Bendigo.

Meanwhile, Hiphopportunities will receive $180,000 from Engage! for its Bigger Than Hip-Hop project, which uses hip-hop as a platform for personal and social change. Hiphopportunities connects young creatives with qualified youth workers through its Third Rail Studio in Eaglehawk as well as the Hip-Hop HQ art incubator.

According to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, both give young Victorians “the power to shape their own communities, discover their voices, and realise their full potential.”

“This investment ensures young people across Central Victoria have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive – creatively, personally, and professionally,” she said.

“Initiatives like YO Events and Bigger Than Hip-Hop not only help young people build practical skills and showcase their talents, but also plant the seeds for something truly extraordinary – paving pathways to exciting futures.”

For more information, visit the Engage! or FReeZA websites.