It was also launched as part of the 2020 Youth Week celebrations. The Youth Council had planned to host a Colour Run in Mulwala as part of the celebrations, but due to the COVID-19 social distancing rules was postponed.
The Youth Councillors consider social media as an important communication tool to be able to engage young people aged between 15 and 25 years. The ‘I am Federation’ social media page aims to provide a platform to inform and engage the youth of Federation Council about what is happening and what is available for young people in the area.
This go-to social media hub for all youth in the Federation Council area will provide information about upcoming youth focused events and activities, information relating to youth issues and concerns, local service providers, Youth Council initiatives, as well as other youth related information and opportunities as they arise.
“I’m loving what’s coming out of the Federation Youth Council – their enthusiasm, with ‘I am Federation’ - how proud is that? It’s really exciting,” Cr Bronwyn Thomas said at council’s on-line monthly meeting on April 21.
She referred to the ABC program ‘Heywire’ for regions’ youth across rural Australia.
“It’s fully expenses paid, very solid speakers. It’s an opportunity for our Youth Council to go to Canberra for a summit, and for our council staff to explore along with our Youth Council. They can advocate on behalf of communities to the Federal Government. It’s on our doorstep.”
Mayor Pat Bourke praised the work of ‘Heywire’ and described the suggestion by Cr Thomas as “a great idea”. “It’s a great opportunity for council staff and the Youth Council to come together regarding a summit in Canberra.”
At its August 2019 meeting, Federation Council resolved to support the Federation Youth Council in establishing a Federation Youth Council Facebook Page and an Instagram Account managed by council’s communication and community development teams.
Youth Week 2020 NSW from April 1 to 9 was organised by young people, for young people, in communities across NSW and Australia.
The theme for Youth Week 2020 was ‘Speak up. Be involved. Get Connected. Have Fun’. The Department of Communities and Justice allowed Youth Week funding to be used outside the parameters of original agreements with councils including holding an event/activity for young people later in the year when the risks associated with the virus have passed.
The Federation Youth Council hopes to host the Colour Run later in the year.