More than 200 young people from across Shellharbour will come together to explore how technology, innovation and leadership can create opportunities for positive change at the Shellharbour Youth Summit 2026.
Held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre on Thursday 13 August, the annual Summit will celebrate International Youth Day and inspire local students to develop the skills, confidence and connections needed to lead in a rapidly changing world.
Caption: The Shellharbour Youth Summit is on Thursday 13 August at the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
This year's theme, The New Generation of Leadership: Exploring How Technology, Innovation and Leadership Can Create Opportunities for Positive Change, focuses on preparing young people for the future while encouraging them to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the Summit continues to provide a valuable opportunity for young people to be inspired, share ideas and connect with leaders from a range of fields.
"Young people have an important role to play in shaping the future of our city, and the Youth Summit gives them the chance to learn from experienced leaders, explore emerging opportunities and build confidence in their own potential," Mayor Homer said.
"This year's focus on technology, innovation and leadership reflects the world our young people are growing up in."
"We want them to leave the Summit feeling empowered to embrace new opportunities and create positive change in their schools, workplaces and communities."
The Summit will feature keynote presentations and interactive activities designed to encourage participation and discussion.
Topics will include artificial intelligence, innovation, social media entrepreneurship, digital leadership and emerging career pathways.
Students will hear from industry experts including Google for Education Australia Country Manager Bettina Fifer, Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong's Learning Technologies and Innovation specialist Ben Woods and Joshua Fellows, Fan Growth and Community Engagement Lead at Norths Basketball.
Participants will also have the opportunity to engage with community youth service providers and Council services, helping them build connections and discover pathways for future education, employment and community involvement.
Since 2019, the Shellharbour Youth Summit has brought young people together to connect, learn and be inspired, while providing a platform for youth voices to contribute to the future of the community.
The Shellharbour Youth Summit will be held from 8.30am to 2pm on Thursday 13 August 2026 at the Shellharbour Civic Centre.
KEY MESSAGES:
- More than 200 local students will explore leadership, technology and innovation at the 2026 Youth Summit.
- The Summit empowers young people to develop skills, confidence and connections for the future.
- International Youth Day is an opportunity to celebrate young people as leaders and changemakers in our community.
