More than 30 teenagers will ‘take over’ Burnie in Tasmania next week to share their stories as part of the ABC’s Regional Takeover Youth Summit.
Takeover is a place-based initiative which amplifies the voices of young people on the ABC and in their communities.
Through school workshops, stories on the ABC, a youth summit and a community grants program, Takeover shines a spotlight on a particular regional community, creating meaningful, lasting change in the region.
A partnership between the ABC, Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF), the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and the Office for Youth (OFY) has brought 34 young people together for a week of leadership, storytelling and celebrations.
“The ABC has been thrilled to work with the Burnie community for Takeover,” says Justin Stevens, ABC Director of News. “Takeover is about championing the voices of regional young people and celebrating local communities.”
Australia will hear stories from Cameron, a young spud farmer who started his own business selling potatoes; Jana, who struggled to access sport but is passionate about making netball more inclusive for everyone; and Fatma, who shares the racism and stereotyping she faces for wearing her hijab.
“I feel seen. I feel like my voice is heard. And finally, I feel like positive change can occur from my story. With the summit I am very excited to meet people that went through the same process and were able to get something great out of their story. I am excited to share ideas and generally talk to new people”, Fatma says.
The summit brings together young people, community leaders, and partners of the program to develop youth-led ideas that will make their community an even better place to live for young people.
“We’re excited to bring Takeover to Burnie and to support young people share their stories with Tasmania as well as the rest of Australia,” said Kym Goodes, TCF Chairperson.
“A key focus of the TCF is help remove barriers to learning for young people. Takeover Burnie supports the young participants to become strong, vibrant, resilient members of their community, capable of shaping their own future.”
To further support ideas developed at the Takeover Summit, FRRR will be offering grants to community organisations to bring to life the ideas developed by summit participants.
“We’re proud to back young people’s ideas and empower them to make their region a thriving place for young people to live, work and play”, says Deb Samuels, the People Portfolio Lead at FRRR.
Takeover Burnie winners will be featured across the ABC during September.
The Takeover Burnie Summit begins Monday 22 September, with young people showcasing their ideas for change at the Burnie Arts Centre next week on September 25, 3:30pm – 5:30pm.