NSW Youth Week 2024: Express, Empower, Get Loud!

Published on 03 April 2024

Edward River Council is set to deliver another valuable program for youth during NSW Youth Week, an annual celebration empowering young people across New South Wales, from 11-21 April 2024.

This year's theme, "Express, Empower, Get Loud!" was chosen by the NSW Youth Advisory Council and embodies the essence of self-expression, empowerment, and active participation. It encourages young people to embrace their individuality, amplify their voices on issues that matter, and engage actively within their communities.

This year, with the support of a one-off grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, Edward River Council has collaborated with Year 10 and Year 11 students from Deniliquin High School and Deniliquin TAFE NSW Campus to develop a community-based training program as part of Youth Week.

Council staff worked closely with the students, who formed a steering committee, to identify their needs and aspirations.

The resulting project aims to empower youth by providing training opportunities in either barista or Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) courses, equipping them with skills for part-time employment or future career endeavours.

Deniliquin TAFE Campus has generously offered 20 spots across a one-day course aimed at 14 to 18 year-olds, which will also include an informative session on job interview preparation. The courses are scheduled for 12 April at the Deniliquin TAFE Campus.

Additionally, Council will liaise with local hospitality businesses to explore job opportunities for course participants, fostering community connections and expanding their networks.

Mayor of Edward River Council, Cr Peta Betts is looking forward to the spotlight being on the region’s youth for the week.

“The ultimate objective of this youth-driven project is to foster a sense of connection, belonging and purpose among young people within our community,” she said.

Applications to participate in the course can be accessed through the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z63N93Z