Gen Z shines as first Youth Week Tasmania begins

Following the end of National Youth Week in 2017, the new-look Youth Week Tasmania is set to be bigger and better than ever, with events kicking off right around the state from this afternoon.

Tasmania’s largest celebration of young people will feature a series of new and exciting events throughout the week including a pop-up cafe with young Tasmanians preparing everything from the cakes to the coffee.

With events continuing from Friday, 13 April – Sunday, 22 April, young people will have the chance to attend music festivals, art exhibitions, youth forums and even a performing arts boot camp.

Youth Network of Tasmania CEO Tania Hunt said over 20 youth focused events around the state will provide a much needed opportunity for Young Tasmanian’s to take the stage, have fun and lead positive change.

“Youth Week Tasmania is about celebrating the significant contributions young people make in our communities, and showcasing their many skills and talents,” Ms Hunt said.

“With the voice of the youth so often over looked in decision making, the continuation of Youth Week provides a vital chance for us to listen and learn from young Tasmanians.”

A mammoth collaborative effort from Clarence, Hobart and Glenorchy youth advisory committees will launch Youth Week Tasmania in the south this evening with outdoor games, projected art works, live music, and slam poetry at Hobart Town Hall.

With excitement building for tonight’s launch, 16 year old event volunteers, Ruby Bartle and Annabelle Tang, discussed the importance of youth focused events in Tasmania.

“Youth Week is about the celebration of youth and what we as young people have to offer,” said Ms Bartle.

“This is one day of the year youth can feel empowered about their input in our society which is usually undermined and ignored,” added Ms Tang.

“It’s our chance to show that we are more than we seem.”

Youth Week Tasmania is supported by a new Tasmanian Government grants program coordinated by Communities, Sport and Recreation in the Department of Premier and Cabinet.

For a full calendar of events visit www.ynot.org.au/events-calendar
Stuart Roberts Youth Week Tasmania Project Officer