Month-Long Youth Fest Celebration Kicks Off
The skills and achievements of young Victorians will be celebrated with a month-long festival, supported by the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman joined Member for Preston Nathan Lambert to launch Youth Fest – a program of 111 events being held right across Victoria throughout September.
From live music, art and filmmaking to sustainable gardening, Youth Fest 2023 is supported by the Labor Government and features events designed for and by young Victorians.
Grants of $2,000 have been awarded to youth sector organisations, local government, and schools to develop events in partnership with Victorians aged 12 to 25.
This investment helps young people to organise and deliver events, highlight their skills, share ideas, build social connections, and expand their networks.
The launch was held at the not-for-profit Moon Rabbit Café in Preston, where young trainees get the chance to hone their hospitality skills as part of Bridge Darebin’s work-readiness training program.
Bridge Darebin offers vocational and life skills training to young people who may face employment challenges, including those with disability, mental health barriers and First Nations youth.
The café will host ‘Reimagining Monday’ on 18 September with trainees taking over full operation of the social enterprise for the day.
For the full Youth Fest program, visit vic.gov.au/youth-fest
Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“We’re proud to support youth-led events - Youth Fest is all about celebrating the ideas and achievements of Victoria’s young people.”
“Youth Fest is designed by young people, for young people. These events will amplify the voices of young Victorians and place the spotlight on their immense contribution to their communities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Preston Nathan Lambert
“I’m delighted to be launching Youth Fest here in Preston at Moon Rabbit Café.”
“This month of events provides young people both in Preston and across our state with opportunities to bring their ideas to life and connect with their peers and communities”
