Leading by example!

By Kath Gannaway
DEVELOPING networking and public speaking skills have been instrumental in helping Amanda Dawson pursue a career in youth services.
As a past participant now working as an events worker with the Shire of Yarra Ranges Youth Program, Ms Dawson is the perfect advocate for the shire’s Young Leaders’ Program.
The program is aimed at young people who want to make a difference in their community.
The free program from March to September, gives participants an opportunity to gain a range of skills including research, project and event management, public speaking, funding and networking.
Participants also have an opportunity to advise Yarra Ranges Council on local youth issues and assist with planning and development of a project in their community.
Ms. Dawson, said her participation in the program had assisted her in developing the necessary skills to pursue employment in her chosen field – youth work.
“The most important skills I developed were networking with relevant services and young people in the area, public speaking, time management and community project development,” Ms. Dawson said.
“My community project involved researching and developing a guide for young people that included relevant services and support groups available in the local area, which was then uploaded on to the shire’s Youth Services website.
“This opened the door for me to the shire’s Youth Services department, where I’ve established a rewarding career that has me involved in organising music and events committees and the Bravado Film Festival” she said.
“The program is a great way to build a range of skills that could help you get your dream job, and gives you an opportunity to have your say and make a real difference in the community – you never know where it might take you.”
The Young Leaders Program is for people aged 17 to 25, who live, work or study in the Shire of Yarra Ranges.
For more information phone 9294 6716 or visit www.yrys.com.