Victorian Youth Fest, happening throughout September, will reconnect young people through a series of face-to-face, digital and hybrid events supported by the Victorian Government.
Funding of $220,000 has been shared across councils, community organisations and schools, who will host 110 unique events throughout the state.
Preston Neighbourhood House will host two poetry events for LGBTIQ+ youth and allies as part of the Bridge Queer Gathering Poets Corner, fostering a strong community and encouraging creative expression in a safe and inclusive environment.
Ballarat Action Climate Co-Op youth members supported by Food Is Free volunteers will host ‘A Good Day to Grow’, an indoor plant workshop which aims to inspire young people to green their personal spaces, promote healthier living environments and encourage healthy routines.
Other Youth Fest events include Youth 4 Eco Art, which will deliver creative workshops and a permanent mural in Manningham City and Bonnie Doon Community Group, which will lead a Youth Film Festival in Mansfield to promote youth advocacy and voices.
Successful organisations have partnered with young people to design and deliver activities that will provide opportunities to showcase skills and expand professional and social networks.
In the distribution of funding, priority was given to events that engage newly arrived young people, refugees and asylum seekers, Aboriginal young people, young people from diverse cultural backgrounds, rural and regional Victorians, young people with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and those facing social isolation.
For more information and to find an event near you, please visit the Youth Central website.