We’re halfway through our 2026 Youth Voice recruitment campaign at Vincentia High, and we are getting excited for a new batch of changemakers to join us.
Now in its third iteration, the Youth Voice Project continues to offer students a platform to lead, speak up, and shape their community. From mentoring sessions to real-world projects, the program has grown into a cornerstone of youth engagement in the Bay and Basin.
This year’s program brings exciting updates. In 2026, students will be supported by new teacher mentors who will walk alongside them throughout the journey, including attending the much-anticipated Sydney trip in Week 10 of Term 1. The 2026 excursion will focus on team building, advocacy training and active citizenship, supported by Uniting’s in-house advocacy team. All expenses for the trip are covered, ensuring every student can participate fully.
The age range remains the same; we are welcoming students from Years 8 to 10. Like last year, the program will run for one school year, allowing students to dive deep into leadership development and community engagement. The weekly workshops will run on Thursday afternoons.
From the 2025 program, one standout success from the current cohort was the Project Skate initiative. Over the October school holidays, students helped organise two professionally run skate workshops and community events. These events brought together young people, families, and local leaders, showcasing the power of youth-led ideas in action.
Students who joined the Youth Voice Project in 2025 have received support, they have participated in the Community Minded program, gained skills as Peer Researchers, and become changemakers in their community. The program offers leadership training, mentoring, and opportunities to take part in a project pitch event, forums, and creative campaigns. Students also meet with local community leaders and attend public events to promote their projects.
Past participants have spoken highly of the experience. In a recent blog post about Project Skate, one student shared:
“It was amazing to see our idea come to life and bring people together. I’ve learned so much about planning, teamwork, and speaking up”.” -2025 Participant.
These reflections highlight the confidence and growth students gain through the program.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Youth Voice Project group will be involved in a range of exciting activities, from the Sydney trip and the pitch event to advocacy workshops and leadership and decision-making opportunities. Each student will have the chance to develop a project that addresses a real issue and need in their community, supported by local mentors and peers.
Running Youth Voice for a third year is a source of pride and excitement. As the program lead,
“I’ve had the privilege of watching young people grow in confidence, develop their voice, and create meaningful change. One of my favourite parts is seeing the transformation”, said Christine McInerney Percy, Youth Voice Program lead at Firefly Bay and Basin. “Students who start shy and uncertain become bold leaders with powerful ideas”.
Applications are open now, and we’re calling on students in Years 8 to 10 at Vincentia High School to step forward and be part of something bigger. If you’re ready to lead, speak up, and make a difference, Youth Voice is here to support you.
Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Your community needs you.