The voices of young Whittlesea residents were at the forefront of the City of Whittlesea’s 2025 youth summit, with student leaders coming together to share their vision for the future.
The summit was held on Thursday, September 11 and brought together more than 25 local schools, with students aged 12-16 contributing ideas and experiences to guide council’s youth services.
Discussions focused on the top issues identified in this year’s youth survey, including connection and belonging, mental health and wellbeing, personal and community safety, and identity.
Co-founder of Think Village Mahamed Ahmed spoke at the event and left participants inspired with an energetic presentation of leadership.
Youth mayor Kaynat Virk said the passion in the room was clear.
“The summit was a powerful reminder of the vision young people bring when given the space to lead,” she said.
“The youth council felt honoured to learn alongside participants.”
Whittlesea mayor Martin Taylor said the summit reinforced the importance of co-designing services with young people.
“The youth summit gave every participant a genuine voice in shaping their future,” he said.
“The ideas shared were grounded in empathy, inclusion and a strong sense of community.”
Council said the feedback gathered from the summit, alongside the youth survey will help shape future programs, events, and services for the city’s diverse youth population.
Young people aged 16-25 are encouraged to have their say by completing the Whittlesea youth Survey before Friday, October 31.
