44 new Youth Ambassadors begin their year of challenges

The long awaited 6^th ARA Youth Ambassador Camp in early April has set the scene for a challenging and rewarding year ahead for the new recruits.

The camp is the annual launching pad for ARA’s Youth Ambassador program, which develops leadership skills in high school students who are passionate about refugee issues. The program provides young people with training and experience to advocate for refugees and asylum seekers, and guides them to engage with the broader community to promote harmony and understanding.

This year’s group consists of 44 young people from 9 different high schools across Adelaide. The camp was the first time they met as a group. Held at Woodhouse Activity Centre, the 3 day gathering included mental, creative and physical activities for personal and group growth:

• Workshops about the global refugee and asylum seeker experience
• The Challenge Hill adventure course
• Mental health workshops
• Creative arts workshops
• Contemporary African dance
• Djembe drumming and singing
• A performance night and dance party
• Games and group work with ActNow Theatre Company
• Self-defence classes
• A panel with Peer Leaders, who are former Youth Ambassadors
• Information about ARA and the Youth Ambassador program

“It is always a privilege and highlight to see young people challenge themselves to try something new – especially those who have never had a night away from their family. They built new friendships with others from different cultures and schools which they otherwise might not have had the chance to do”, said Carly Squire, Youth Ambassador Program Coordinator.

The camp gives the new Youth Ambassadors a springboard into their three challenges for the year:

1. Create and carry out a social awareness campaign building awareness and promoting cultural diversity, harmony and acceptance, and the refugee journey.
2. Take part in a fundraising event to raise money for refugees living in South Australia.
3. Volunteer with ARA.

Students are free to decide how they will complete these challenges. Each receives support and guidance from ARA staff and the Youth Ambassadors who successfully complete all three challenges will be recognised at a graduation ceremony held at the end of the year.

Each student, with their school’s support, will also have the opportunity to achieve 10 Stage 1 SACE credit points through completing three additional assignments.

Since its inception, the Youth Ambassador program has provided young people with work experience, new friends and networks, leadership training and the advocacy tools to make a difference within their communities.

If you’re interested in becoming a Youth Ambassador or would like to support the program, please contact reception@ausref.net or call 08 8354 2951.