Greater Geelong's Junior Mayor Josie Horne has presented the Youth Council's second report to council.
Twelve people aged 12-16 were elected to the region's first ever Youth Council in February this year, to advise council and serve as an official 'youth voice'.
Over the last two months, youth councillors have spent time judging the Geelong Youth Awards, which took place on June 7, 2019. The awards recognised young people making significant contributions to the community and the Junior Mayor presented certificates to them at the ceremony.
Youth councillors have also been involved in a structured mentoring program that connects them with their respective ward councillors. The initiative aims to support the youth councillors to develop skills in civic leadership, community participation and engagement, and also to provide a voice for young people.
Members from each ward are planning to attend Youth Drop-In programs across the region to engage with young people and hear about the issues affecting them. This engagement will help guide youth councillors on proposed changes or projects that may help our region's youth reach their full potential. The Youth Council will present a detailed report from these sessions in its next presentation to council on September 24, 2019.
Youth councillors will also be dedicated to organising the Youth Summit, including planning its location and activities.
You can view a copy of the Youth Council's second report to council in last night's council meeting agenda.
Councillor Bruce Harwood - Mayor
Our youth councillors have been hard at work collaborating with their constituents, to find out how they can best serve them. I'm looking forward to learning of their progress over the next two months.My fellow councillors and I are enjoying mentoring them and gaining valuable insight into the issues affecting young people, as they develop their priorities and future actions.
Josie Horne - Junior Mayor
Greater Geelong's Youth Council is made up of an empathetic, dedicated and driven group of young people who are passionate about making a difference.Over the next two months, we will continue to work on our portfolio areas as well as meeting more young people to gain essential feedback.
