Youth forum tackles burning topics

Young people from throughout the district will attend the Armidale Regional Youth Forum on Wednesday 8 August to discuss key issues confronting their generation.

The annual forum, being held at Armidale Bowling Club, will give young people aged 14 to 24 years the opportunity to speak up and discuss the topics that concern them most.

Students from Armidale and Guyra will be joined by representatives from Tingha and young people engaged with local youth services.

The Armidale Regional Youth Advisory Committee (ARYAC) is coordinating the event, with assistance from Council, and has selected four topics: •sexuality and sexual health •mental health •drugs and alcohol •cyberbullying/bullying

NSW Upper House MP Mehreen Faruqi and police officer Senior Constable Jarryd De Castro, LGBTI Liaison Officer and Peer Support Officer, are guest speakers at the forum and will be part of a discussion panel.

Ms Faruqi said it was a tremendous privilege to be part of the forum and discuss the future young people want.

“At the moment young people, especially in regional areas, face challenges like never before - the cost of housing and education, a lack of work opportunities and a political system that isn’t listening to them,” she said.

"I'm really excited about the opportunity for a frank and open discussion and hearing young people’s views on what we need to do.”

Senior Constable De Castro said the forum was a great opportunity for youth to understand current issues and be aware of how they can address what they see as well as assist others in need.

“The topic of sexuality, gender diversity is a big part of my life and my identity,” he said.

“Given the world and its views are forever changing, it is a great opportunity to present to the youth and ensure they stay up to date and are aware of the growing support the community has for those within and those outside this bracket.”

Several other professionals will be on hand for forum discussions, which will include Conversation Cafes for small groups to consider the key issues and find solutions.

Further information about the forum is available at yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au/youth-forum

Published on 02 Aug 2018