YAPA media release: 22 September 11
MEDIA RELEASE
Not being old enough to vote wonʼt stop young people in Western Sydney making their voices heard, especially when thereʼs an MP in the room.
October 5, 2011 will see Whatʼs Up West? the YAPA Western Sydney Youth Conference hit the Riverside Theatres in Parramatta once again.
“Our 2009 event was so successful that weʼre expecting over 100 young people to attend the Conference,” says Leah Weber, Western Sydney Project Coordinator at YAPA.
“The event is based around the idea that ʻEvery Issue is a Youth Issueʼ, and we want young people ages 12 to 18 to be able to come along to have some fun, learn some new skills, and chat about things that affect them as part of the Western Sydney community.”
The NSW Minister for Citizenship and Communities, Victor Dominello, will be participating in a Q&A session, providing a terrific opportunity for young people in Western Sydney to have their opinions heard by the Minister that represents them in Parliament.
“We make sure that all of the sessions are fun and useful, while also letting young people explore the issues that theyʼre involved in. Weʼll have sessions on running great events, hip hop dance, transport, school life in Western Sydney, mental health, safety and violence in Western Sydney, bullying, and heaps more. Weʼre also having performances by local band This Sanctuary, and solo artist Stono Caves. Local Hip-Hop stars, Royalty Crew, will also be performing and running a workshop on the day.”
Whatʼs Up West? is coordinated by the Youth Action & Policy Association (YAPA)ʼs Western Sydney Project, who are joined by Outburst! The Western Sydney Youth Forum in coordinating the event.
Whatʼs Up West? is a free event, and young people from all across Western Sydney are encouraged to book and come along. More information on sessions, and how to book can be found on the YAPA website www.yapa.org.au/west or by calling 9281 5522.
The Youth Action & Policy Association (YAPA) is non-party-political and nonreligious. It is funded by the NSW Government to support and work with young people to make a positive difference in our communities. YAPA works towards a society where all young people are supported, engaged and valued.
Media contact
Leah Weber
0424 024 497
