SA Youth Week 2024 wraps up with more than 50 events
SA Youth Week has wrapped up for 2024 with plenty of fun, energy and new connections. This year included more than 50 events on the SAYW calendar.
SA Youth Week launches with a focus on direct feedback
Celebrations kicked off with a launch event held on 14 March at Next Gen Health and Lifestyle Club, led by energetic host and Chair of the Youth Minister’s Advisory Council (YMAC), Zane LeBlond.
The Minister for Human Services Nat Cook MP, who has long been connected with Youth Week, spoke about the importance of consulting directly with young people through channels including the YMAC and the Youth Action Plan consultation, and responding proactively to their key concerns including mental health.
Attendees heard powerful and inspiring words from special guest speakers SA Youth Governor David Deex and 2023 7NEWS Young Achiever Award winner Felicity Graham.
The afternoon concluded with a networking afternoon tea, and beautiful music performed by Tilly Tjala Thomas.
10 days of celebrations
Over 10 days, South Australians aged 12 to 25 enjoyed trying their hand at a huge range of activities, including African drumming, yoga, a Youth Mob tree climb, a dance tournament, painting and an Amazing Race event that focused on mental wellbeing — just to name a few!
A particular highlight was a state-wide consultation tour with the United Nations Youth Australia representative for SA.
$50,000 in grants awarded to help SA communities celebrate
The department awarded a total of $50,000 in grant funding to 25 not-for-profit community groups, non-government organisations and local councils to celebrate SAYW in their local community, however many more organisations jumped on board to deliver fantastic events for their community.
Special thanks to everyone who hosted or attended an activity. We look forward to celebrating with you again in 2025.