Sunshine Coast decision makers of tomorrow
Sun 13 December 2009
Kamilia Palu, Bachelor of Journalism
The Sunshine Coast Regional Council’s newest members are quite different to the normal councillors.
The 13 individuals that comprise the Council’s Youth Engagement Team share one common trait: they are all from Generation Y.
The team was developed to gain a better understanding of the issues affecting young people aged 16 to 25, aiming to give them a voice on these issues.
Having already completed their first project on entertainment, the Youth Engagement Team now has their sights set on the focus of their second project: transport.
Community Development Officer Adam Lewczuk works closely with the Youth Engagement Team, and said it is not necessarily about improving public transport but more about encouraging young people to talk and comment on the issues.
"They are experts in their own area," Mr Lewczuk said.
Mr Lewczuk said having a youth voice in council gives a "unique understanding and perspective" of youth culture.
"Our main aim is to provide an opportunity for young people to have clear and easier access to government decision making,” Mr Lewczuk said.
"Young people's opinions are just as valuable as any community members' opinion.”
Earlier this year, the team held the first research session titled the “Change Your World” youth project.
The session was held alongside the 2009 Sunshine Coast Youth Summit on October 9, 2009.
The Youth Summit was coordinated by the Sunshine Coast Youth Partnership (SCYP), and attracted 60 local young people to comment on issues that affected them.
SCYP chief executive officer Jody Tunnicliffe also believes it is “absolutely imperative” for youth to have a voice on issues that affect them.
“Without consulting young people, we are not only discounting over 20 per cent of our population, but decisions are being made without the amazing perspective, intelligence and contribution that young people bring to any process, especially if they have to live with the consequences,” Ms Tunnicliffe said.
“I also put the challenge out there to young people to pro-actively engage and get involved in their community and the decision-making process, to assure that they don’t inherit a complete mess.”
To take part in the Youth Engagement Team’s current project, go to www.youthlinx.com
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