Programs empower and engage young people in Baw Baw Shire

Published on 25 January 2023

Baw Baw Shire Council is excited to announce two youth opportunities aimed at empowering and engaging young people in our community.

Supported by Council and funded by the State Government, the Springboard FReeZA Committee and Young Voices Program provide an opportunity for young people to develop valuable skills, make a positive impact in the community and participate directly with Council and Council programs in Baw Baw Shire.

Both programs are currently seeking expressions of interest from young people keen to get involved.

The Springboard FReeZA Committee are a group of young people that will lead the planning and staging of live music and cultural events in our community. It gives participants hands on experience and training in the Australian Music Industry, including event management, mentoring and networking opportunities. Applications are open now to all young people aged 12 to 25 years old.

The Young Voices Program provides a unique opportunity for participants to work with likeminded young people to develop collaboration skills and make a positive impact by planning and delivering community projects. It offers the chance to be a voice and advocate for local youth issues, gain hands on project management experience and deliver events through school holidays and Victorian Youth Fest. Applications are open now to all young people aged 15 to 25 years old who live, work or study in Baw Baw Shire.

Expressions of interest for both programs can be made online via Council’s website until 5pm on Tuesday 28 February 2023.

Visit the program webpage for full details, selection criteria and to submit an expression of interest.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor Cr Michael Leaney

"We are thrilled to be able to offer these two unique opportunities to young people in Baw Baw Shire. An investment in the growth and development of our emerging young leaders is an investment in our community’s future.

Both of these programs offer a great way for young people to gain valuable experience, make new friends, and be real leaders in our community.

If you or someone you know is a young leader in the making, we want to hear from them. These are fantastic programs, they are a lot of fun, and they will make a huge positive impact for young people in Baw Baw. I encourage all young people to apply now to get involved."

Quotes attributable to Cr Jazmin Tauru

“Developing leadership skills in young people equips them with the tools to tackle challenges, make informed decisions and drive positive change. Programs like FReeZA and the the Young Voices Program provide young people with opportunities to get involved in their community and gain real-world experience. They build confidence and resilience and make them better prepared to take on leadership roles in the future.

I am delighted that Council is offering these opportunities to our young people. By nurturing and empowering the next generation of leaders, we can ensure a strong and thriving community for years to come.”