I ALWAYS look forward to National Youth Week – it’s such a great opportunity each year to celebrate the talents and contributions of young people across Australia, especially right here in Port Stephens.
This year, Youth Week runs from 9 to 17 April, and the theme – ‘We are the future, and the future is now’ is a great one.
Our young people aren’t just tomorrow’s leaders, they’re already making an impact today.
They bring fresh ideas, energy, and a unique understanding of the challenges we face in our community. It’s really vital to actively listen to and empower these voices.
That’s why we’re proud of the work happening through our Youth Action and Advocacy Program (YAAP).
Through this program, young people share their views on issues that matter most to them.
It’s all about creating real opportunities for young people to have a direct say in the decisions that affect their lives and the future of our region.
Their voices are helping to guide us in making better, more inclusive choices.
Youth Week also gives us a fantastic opportunity to connect young people with the programs and initiatives we run. I’m particularly excited about the upcoming Battle of the Arts talent show in Fly Point Park, Nelson Bay, on Thursday, 17 April!
It’s a brilliant showcase of local talent and a reminder of just how creative and inspiring our young people are.
I want every young person in Port Stephens to know that they are seen, heard, and supported.
We’re committed to creating spaces and opportunities where they can thrive – and where their ideas and input genuinely shape our community’s future.
So this Youth Week, I encourage everyone to take the time to listen to the voices of our youth.
They’re not just the leaders of tomorrow – they’re already making a difference today, and I’ll continue to make sure those voices are heard loud and clear.
By Leah ANDERSON, Mayor, Port Stephens Council
