Corowa Youth, Create and Celebrate the Environment
Corowa Youth, Create and Celebrate the Environment
“Empowering young people to lead and participate in community development activities” was a project hosted by Corowa District Landcare Inc and supported by the Department of Communities and Justice (Youth NSW).
Community Participation -
LP019-009
The issue
In rural communities there is a big emphasis on connection and socialisation via sport and sporting clubs. However, not all young people are interested in sport. Within rural communities, there is the need for all young people to develop connectivity within their community and develop leadership skills. Projects that nurture community connectivity and future leaders are important.
The solution
Seven participants, from a range of backgrounds, came together for fortnightly meeting over a period of 10 months. The participants in the project were aged 12-25. They had ownership of the project, deciding on all aspects of design and implementation. They decided on an environmentally focused wetland project, building a reptile habitat. Participants also developed communication, decision making, teamworking and leadership skills.
The project gave participants the opportunity to form close bonds with a range of community groups, including Corowa Rotary, Corowa Girl Guides, Corowa Apex, Country Women’s Association, and the Corowa Community Garden. The participants received training in public speaking and had the opportunity to interact with a young local journalist and the Mayor of Federation Council. There is the need for young people to be aware of community groups within their community, so that they can be future participants.
The impact
The project recognised that everyone has strengths and talents. Individual talents were nurtured within the project. Individual empowerment was a major project outcome. Small incremental encouragement and recognition play a very important role in building self-confidence and willingness to participate in activities in the community. A video diary created by the participants of their key learnings and impact was an element that really enjoyed - CDL Youth Create and Celebrate Project.
Emerging leaders are developed by connecting youth with community groups in rural and isolated communities. Mentoring and training from community leaders empowered youth to engage, building community connections and capacity.
Key facts
- Development of connectivity within community
- Development of leadership skills
- Everyone has strengths and talents
- 7 youth participants mentored as our next community leaders