Tara Murray
Three local teenagers are sharing their stories as part of the ABC’s Takeover Melbourne storytelling competition.
Takeover Melbourne is a new initiative from the ABC in partnership with VicHealth, Resilient Melbourne and the Centre for Multicultural Youth, amplifying the voices of young Melbournians between 12 and 18.
Hundreds of young people from across Melbourne stepped up to share their stories, with 31 winners to have their stories featured on ABC radio and television.
Among the winners was Sara from Craigieburn, who spoke about growing up in Iraq and how life changed when war broke out in 2014.
She then spoke about the joy of moving to Craigieburn in 2017.
Mohammad from Attwood also speaks about his journey from his home country to Australia.
He remembers fearing the dark and then later the day time, when real monsters roamed the streets, carrying guns, badges and the power to do as they wish.
Lalor’s Nour shared a poem about returning to Afghanistan when she was five, so her family could look after her grandmother.
She remembers her friends and certain places and thinks about what they are doing and whether those places still exist.
All three talk about feeling safe in Australia and their dreams for the future.
ABC regional and local director Judith Whelan said the competition is an important platform for young people living in greater Melbourne to make a difference.
“Congratulations to all of the winners for proudly sharing your courageous and powerful stories. Stories like these have the ability to bring us together as a community.”
The winners were celebrated at a virtual gala event last week.
To see the full list of winners and hear their stories, go to: abc.net.au/takeover.
