Final Presentations of National Indigenous Youth Leadership Group

Members of the National Indigenous Youth Leadership Group gathered in Canberra today to present their ideas on cultural identity, education, employment and youth leadership to Australian Government Members of Parliament, Senators and Indigenous leaders.

Minister for Community Services, John Cobb, presented certificates to the 15 young Indigenous Australians in recognition of their commitment and contribution to this year’s National Indigenous Youth Leadership Group (NIYLG).

‘This year NIYLG members developed four projects, aimed at improving opportunities for young Indigenous Australians,’ Mr Cobb said.

‘The final presentations ceremony was chaired by NIYLG member, and this year’s NAIDOC Youth of the Year, Jo-Anne D’Cress.

‘I have been impressed by the leadership qualities of members of the group, their dedication and their desire to bring about a positive change for young people in their communities, and I wish them well in their future endeavours,’ Mr Cobb said.

The NIYLG will now be merged with the National Youth Roundtable, providing young Australians from all backgrounds with an opportunity to work together and to express their views to the Government. Indigenous membership on the Roundtable will be safeguarded with significant representation.

‘The consolidated group will empower Indigenous and non-Indigenous young Australians, and be a forum to share ideas and build respect and understanding,’ Mr Cobb said.

Details of NIYLG members and projects attached.

Cultural Identity team: Tonya Booth, Ismahl Croft, Michael Galluzzo and Jason King, produced a resource for schools, providing youth perspectives on current cultural programs and positive case studies.

Education Team: Chris Wilson, Camille Lew Fatt, Emma Jeffrey and Jayde Fuller, consulted with local Indigenous students to develop strategies to encourage them to complete Year 12 and further their education and employment opportunities.

Employment team: Brendan Bishop, Brendan Church and Jahna Cedar created a package for first time Indigenous job seekers, with practical, user friendly information, success stories and a CD Rom of resume and cover letter templates.

Youth Leadership team: Ngaree Ah Kit, Steven Brown and Brad Welsh produced a fact sheet for businesses encouraging Indigenous youth involvement, a website portal with leadership development opportunities and a DVD concept to showcase senior Indigenous leaders.