Next year is shaping up to be a big year for the youth of SJ.
Construction of the Byford Pump Track and the new-and-improved skate park are on schedule to start around March, the Byford Youth Space will also be getting a makeover in 2025, the shire’s first Youth Advisory Council will also be formed, and last week, news came through that the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale had been awarded a $1500 grant from the state government to deliver a youth fest event as part of Youth Week WA 2025.
This free event, designed for young people aged 12-17, will celebrate their talents, creativity, and contributions to the community.
Local young people will take a leading role in planning the event through the youth advisory group.
“This grant enables us to deliver an event that highlights the creativity and contributions of young people in Serpentine Jarrahdale,” Shire President Rob Coales said.
“Youth Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our young residents and foster a sense of community pride.”
Minister for Youth Hannah Beazley stopped by the Byford Youth Space last week to celebrate the news and meet eager candidates for the inaugural Youth Advisory Council.
“These councils and the Ministerial Youth Advisory Council are really effective ways for young people to make a difference,” she said.
“Because of their unique perspective, they often pick up on things we’ve missed, and teach us better ways of communicating.
“I’m really excited to see what ideas the SJ Youth Advisory Council comes up with.”
Udochukwu (Peace) Ogboo is keen to put her stamp on politics and change her home for the better.
“The one thing I’m passionate about is encouraging involvement in STEM – I’m all about that,” she said.
“I really hope I can be part of the Youth Advisory Council.”
And she already has some big plans for the youth fest event that she’s keeping close to her chest.
The theme for WA’s Youth Week from April 10-17, is ‘Our Threads, This Place, Your Moment’ which underscores the deep connections young people have with their community, each other and themselves.
