On August 7, Vincentia High School became a launchpad for youth-led innovation as students pitched their changemaker projects to a packed room of community members.
Part of the Youth Voice Project’s Amplify phase, the event followed months of exploration through the AWARE and ASK phases. Students had identified issues, conducted research, and now stood ready to share their solutions with the Bay and Basin community.
The Pitches That Lit Up the Room
Ace and Baxter kicked off the event with their electrifying project, Squids on Show. Baxter’s electric guitar solo and Ace’s lighting effects transformed the space into a live performance venue, setting the tone for what was to come. Their pitch proposed a youth-led music and event production initiative, giving young people the chance to develop musical talents and learn the ins and outs of backstage event management.
When asked what project inspired them, one attendee shared, “The Squids – very excited for their project.”
Next, Ariah and Willow presented FADIC – Free Activity Drop-In Centre, a vision for a welcoming space where teens can connect, relax, and participate in free activities. Their idea focused on creating a safe and inclusive environment that supports youth wellbeing and social connection.
Their pitch clearly resonated, with one audience member wrote that “FADIC.” was the pitch that inspired them the most.
Ryan, Amelia, and Tyler introduced L1Give, a practical and compassionate initiative aimed at supporting students at Vincentia High School with access to food, hygiene products, and uniform supplies. Their pitch highlighted the importance of dignity and care within the school community.
One attendee noted, “L1 Give & Project Skate” as their biggest inspiration from the event.
Finally, Oscar, Anabelle, August, and Riley pitched Project Skate, a bold plan to revitalise the Sussex Inlet Skatepark. Their vision included co-designing the space with youth and community input to ensure it becomes a vibrant, safe, and inclusive hub for skating and connection.
The pitch struck a chord with the audience, who praised “the passion and proactivity of these young people pioneering these projects” and said they were “looking forward to seeing where they go.”
What’s Happening Now?
Since the pitch event, students have taken their ideas to the next level. They’ve met with community mentors, refined their concepts using SMART goals and the Design for Wiser Action framework, and explored Beyond Sticky Notes, learning to embrace complexity and “work in the grey.” Each team of students has developed a risk management plan and mapped out their Term 4 project goals, turning inspiration into action.
Stay Connected
These projects are evolving, and the community is invited to follow along, support, and get involved. Watch the pitches, share the ideas, and help bring them to life.
Watch all pitch videos on our YouTube channel