We’re delighted to announce that Firefly has received funding through the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) Investing in Rural Community Futures (IRCF) program, with the generous support of Sanctuary Point Community Pride, who will auspice the grant on our behalf, to continue our youth capacity building programs.
This funding will cover two Youth Voice Jr programs in the Bay and Basin across 2025/26. The program is currently running at Sanctuary Point Public School, and in 2026, we hope to bring it to more local primary schools, so even more students have an opportunity to take part.
Building Leadership and Belonging
Youth Voice Jr is designed for Year 6 students, helping them strengthen the skills they’ve developed as school leaders while preparing for the transition to high school. The program draws on Firefly’s Youth Voice model alongside the Community Minded Kids curriculum-linked framework, giving students practical ways to explore leadership, community, and values in action.
Students will learn about community identity, kindness, equity and equality, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. They will also practice teamwork and problem-solving by carrying out peer research, developing projects and project pitches, and implementing real changes at their school.
In the 2024 program at Sanctuary Point Public School, the students’ chosen project was a Sports Shed Revitalisation, which they researched, pitched, and delivered, leaving a lasting impact on their peers.
As one participant shared:
“I learned how small changes can make a big difference in our community.”
Impact on Students and Schools
The program has had clear benefits. Surveys showed:
- A 20% increase in participating students strongly agreeing “there are lots of good things about my school.”
- 100% felt empowered to make a difference.
- Every participant reported a sense of belonging and contribution to school life.
For schools, Youth Voice Jr offers a structured, meaningful way to celebrate Year 6 students and nurture leadership at a crucial stage of their education.
Looking Ahead
Thanks to FRRR’s support, Firefly can expand Youth Voice Jr to additional schools in 2026. We’re now inviting other Bay and Basin schools to connect with us if they’d like to explore hosting the program next year.
Thank You
We’re grateful to Sanctuary Point Community Pride for their partnership, to FRRR for their investment in rural communities, and to the dedicated staff at Sanctuary Point Public School for supporting their student leaders.
Most of all, we thank the students, whose energy, creativity, and courage remind us why Youth Voice Jr matters. Together, we’re building a future where young people are not only included but celebrated as leaders in their communities.
Watch this space to see what the 2025 Youth Voice Jnr students create!