Young people encouraged to make their voice heard through YES
Cessnock City Council wants to hear from young people about the issues important to them as they develop the Youth Engagement Strategy (YES). The YES is designed to provide young people in the Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA) with a platform to have their voices heard about issues important to them.
It’s an initiative of Council’s Cessnock Youth Centre and Outreach Service (CYCOS) and is aimed at young people aged 12 to 25 who are living, working or studying across the Cessnock LGA.
Young people can get involved by doing an online survey or through online discussion panels during October and November.
'Pop-up’ consultations are also planned a local High Schools across, where students will be encouraged to respond to a series of questions.
Participants can also get creative by submitting a photo, video, drawing, painting, short story, song or poem via email that represents the theme “Your Voice, Your Community”.
Similarly, they can take a photo and post to Instagram using the hashtag #2325Mayorforaday to show what changes they would make to their community if they were crowned ‘Mayor for the Day’.
A range of prizes, vouchers and experiences are on offer for the most creative entries. Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent, said it’s vital young people have a voice in determining the future of their community.
“This is an opportunity for young people to be a part of the conversation around issues and events that directly affect them. It will help Council better understand their needs and make decisions based on what they tell us is important.”
For more information and to take part in the survey and discussion panels visit www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au. Full competition terms and conditions can also be found on Council’s website.
