Mr Aaron Harper (MP), Member for Thuringowa joined District Officer Acting Chief Superintendent Chris Lawson and Inspector Michael Volk to congratulate the seven young Townsville women who graduated from Project Booyah today.
Each of these young women were specifically chosen to take part in the early intervention and community inclusion program, run by the Queensland Police Service.
The group learnt the necessary life skills to ultimately improve their health, education, employment opportunities and connection to community.
Acting Chief Superintendent Lawson said the determination, courage and commitment the young women have shown throughout the course has resulted in them graduating with success.
"Prior to this program, these women were considered at risk in the Townsville community who may have disengaged from their schooling or community for a number of different reasons," he said.
"Project Booyah has been delivering programs in Townsville since 2017 with significant success.
"Early intervention is at the heart of the Booyah program, and it allows the young people who participate to improve their relations with police, other authorities and their community.
"Our young people are our state's future, and we all have a role to play to give them the tools, connections, and experience to make good choices and to reengage with their community and their education.
"Sometimes it's about showing up for them, teaching them and providing them guidance and structure throughout the length of the program.
"We are so proud of every single graduate from the Project Booyah program and can't wait to see what challenges they tackle next, where they take their new skills and the people they decide to become."
Project Booyah has dedicated police officers in 10 different locations around the state, working with young people every day.
Mr Harper commended those who had successfully completed Project Booyah.
"I congratulate all graduates from the program today," he said.
"Completing this program is a challenge and it shows real determination and courage to keep showing up and working with each other every day.
"You should be proud of yourselves and each other and I encourage you all to keep working hard to achieve anything you want in life."
Minister Ryan said the program was having a positive effect on the community.
"The Queensland Government supports this program with $1.9 million per annum dedicated to continue this invaluable work and support for our young people," he said.
"At the end of the day, programs like these can have a positive impact by intervening in our young people's paths and giving them the knowledge and skills to choose a path they want in life.
