22 February 2019
Youth Mental Health, Family and Youth Violence and Gender
and Racial Inequality are the greatest issues facing young
people today in Blacktown City.
These concerns topped the list of issues raised at Blacktown
City Council’s inaugural Youth Forum last Thursday 21
February.
More than 110 students representing 12 school from across
Blacktown City attended the special Youth Forum where
young people were given a voice in shaping the City’s future
including taking their place in a formal youth council.
Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said: “This was
a great opportunity for Council to hear what young people in
our City see as the most important issues concerning them.”
The Forum also highlighted social engagement and breaking
down of stereotypes as priorities for young people in the
Blacktown.
Students called on Council to lobby state and federal
governments to fund more programs to combat metal health
among young people.
At the same time, students also said there was a need for
young people themselves to support any of their friends who
were experiencing problems at school or in the home.
One student produced the chilling fact that 75% of all mental
health issues began in childhood.
“As community leaders this was great opportunity to hear
directly from these young people how their lives are affected
by these serious issues,” Mayor Bali said.
“It was also great to see the students work together in
different groups, and get the chance to address Councillors
and Council’s executive staff. I was genuinely blown away by
the talent and passion these young people displayed during
the Youth Council session;” Mayor Bali said.
“I encourage shools and young people in the City to continue
to come forward and engage with us so we jointly address
these major challenges to improve the lives of youth in
Blacktown.”
Blacktown’s Young Citizen of the Year, Patrick Gleeson,
challenged the students: “If you have an idea, no matter how
crazy, make it happen.”
The success of the Forum was summed up by Blacktown
City’s Youth Ambassador, Akano Amuda, in his closing
words when he said; “Today is the day that we start our
youth engagement in shaping the future of Blacktown City.”
Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP collaborated with the
youth on a series of issues.
The youth were given a chance to have their voices heard in
a formal youth council in the council chambers.
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