The national Children and Young People At Risk Summit hosted by Informa gathered representatives from across Australia with the theme ‘Empowering Vulnerable Youth: Solutions, Insights, and Action’ was held at the end of October in Melbourne.
We were pleased to participate in one of the panels where our CEO Judith shared learnings and ideas from our programs supporting young people in contact with youth justice and child protection systems.
We described how valuable connecting young people with community-based supports and mentors can be, and some of the outcomes we have seen for young people. Also the vital need to create spaces which are attractive to young people and easy to access. Spaces which need skilled and committed staff who value young people and can see their potential. We shared how from there all kinds of really good things are possible and we are constantly amazed by the resilience, positive growth and ownership young people show. Also vital is that young people can access these safe spaces for as long as they need them.
The conference was a great opportunity to network with communities and organisations who are committed to supporting young people who have experienced many challenges to flourish and make a positive contribution, and we look forward to joining again in 2027.
