Youth advocacy matters, too!
Have you ever wished there were more trees in your neighbourhood? Wondered what could be done about plastic pollution, climate change, or protecting wildlife? Or thought, "Someone should do something about that!"
If so, we'd love to meet you.
Join us for a free, interactive Youth Advocacy Workshop, where you'll have the chance to share your ideas, hear what other young people care about, and discover how your voice can help shape the future of our community.
What happens at the workshop?
Over 90 minutes, we'll explore questions like:
- What environmental issues are within your control?
- What issues are outside of your control?
- Why do any of these issues matter to you?
- What does it take to convince decision-makers to show more ambition?
Together we'll:
- share the environmental issues we care about
- understand why these issues matter to us
- identify who has the power to make real change
- write a message to a decision-maker about the future we'd like to see.
You don't need to be an expert on environmental issues - just bring your passion!
Why are we doing this?
At NQCC, we believe young people deserve to have a say in decisions that affect their future.
Throughout July, we'll be listening to students from schools and community groups across Townsville. Together, we'll create a collective letter to decision-makers that shares:
- the environmental issues young people care about most
- their hopes and ideas for the future
- a call to action for local decision-makers.
It will be an honest snapshot of what young people across Townsville care about and the future they want to see.
Who can join the workshops?
The workshops are open to young people in Years 5–10 (approximately ages 9–16).
The workshops are completely free, and morning tea will be provided. Parents and carers are welcome to stay and observe the workshop if they wish. Our facilitators all hold Blue Cards and are looking forward to creating a fun, welcoming, and engaging experience for all.
Each workshop runs for approximately 90 minutes, including time for participants to settle in and get to know one another. Bringing together young people of different ages also creates a great opportunity to hear a range of perspectives and learn from one another.
No special knowledge or experience is needed - just curiosity and a willingness to share ideas in a supportive environment.
The workshops will be held at our office in Railway Estate, with parking available at the front of the building. Please note, access to our office is via stairs. We have an option to set up downstairs if required - just let us know!
If you have any accessibility or dietary requirements, please let us know so that we can make this a welcoming experience!
What's happens after the workshop?
Everyone who takes part is invited to our free Future Council community screening on the evening of 5 August.
The documentary follows a group of young people who travel across Europe meeting with leaders, exploring inspiring environmental solutions, and discovering the power of using their voices to create change.
At the screening, we'll unveil the collective youth letter, celebrate what young people across Townsville have shared, and continue the conversation together. There will also be opportunities for interested students to get involved in a local Future Council and connect with community leaders and decision-makers.
Let us know you are coming to the screening here.
Can't make it to our workshop?
If you're a teacher or youth group leader, we'd be happy to bring the Future Council workshop to your school or community group instead. We're offering shorter 40-minute workshops throughout July and will work with you to find a date and time that suits your students. Jut get in touch.
REGISTER BELOW!
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