The Jervis Bay Maritime Museum recently hosted an inspiring event: the Youth Voice Graduation. This milestone gathering was a testament to the incredible creativity, dedication, and resilience of our young people who have participated in the Youth Voice Self-Expression Project. The event brought together students, mentors, families, and community members to celebrate these young leaders’ transformative journey.
A Celebration of Four Projects
This graduation marked the culmination of four impactful Youth Voice projects: Dumps into Jumps, Beyond the Spectrum, Creative Expression, and Breakfast Club. Each project offered unique opportunities for students to explore their passions, address community needs, and develop skills that will benefit them for years.
A Showcase of Creativity and Connection
The highlight of the evening was the screening of a presentation that included sneak peek videos of the Youth Voice Video created by Harry Keilly from Drummer Boy Pictures. The presentations captured the essence of the student’s journey, eliciting laughter, a few cringes, and a sense of pride among the students and guests. Seeing their achievements documented was a heartwarming and memorable experience for all.
A special thank you goes to the families and community members who supported these young leaders every step of the way. Your encouragement has made a lasting impact.
Looking Ahead
This graduation marks the conclusion of the pilot project, but Firefly remains committed to continuing the work inspired by these young people. Excitingly, a new group of 15 students has been selected for the Youth Voice 2025 Project. This next phase will feature notable changes based on reflections and lessons learned from this year’s program, promising even greater opportunities for growth and self-expression.
The Youth Voice Graduation is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter. As these students move forward, their voices will continue to shape our community, inspiring others to create a more inclusive and vibrant future.
