Sixteen young people with inspirational qualities have been selected to be a voice for young people through Sunshine Coast Council's Speak Up Engage program.
Speak Up Engage is an innovative youth engagement and development initiative created by young people for young people.
One of this year's new committee members is Lachlan Smart, who at the age of 18 was the youngest person in history to circumnavigate the globe solo in a single engine aircraft in 2016.
Lachlan's list of achievements include more than five years' experience in the Australian Air Force Cadet system as well as establishing a youth focused anti-domestic violence campaign and representing the campaign as a keynote speaker. He is now turning his focus to making a difference on the Sunshine Coast.
Lachlan is excited to be part of the Speak Up Engage program and is eager to provide council with a unique understanding of the millennial generation.
"I believe interaction and consultation with young people is essential as we are the next generation to shape our region," Lachlan says.
"I created Wings Around the World to provide a platform to show dreams can be achieved no matter your age or circumstances.
"I'm really looking forward to being involved in the Speak Up Engage program as I believe I can make a real difference in our region, as youth working for youth can be incredibly effective, especially when paired with experienced mentors," Lachlan enthuses.
Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay says the calibre of the Speak Up Engage participants is impressive and is confident they will make a significant contribution on matters that affect young people across the region.
"As part of the program, the participants will obtain free formal professional and personal development training by program partners CQUniversity and unique opportunities to provide advice to council on youth related matters," Cr McKay says.
"It is important that council continues to tap into our young resident's enthusiasm, optimism, innovation and creativity to help shape our healthy, smart, creative region."
The 2019 Speak Up Engage participants include:
Brodie Sharman Amber Sheridian
Claire Walsh Ella Woodborne
Jordan Horne Lachie Smart
Olivia DeWet Rebecca McDonald
Sophie Greenhalgh Emily Brennan
Harmony Fritz Aydan Rusev
Mason Hope Cedar Noyes
Jade Ahern Alex Westbury.
