MEDIA RELEASE
The 2020 YACVic Rural Youth Awards recognise the positive stories and outstanding achievements of young people, youth workers, and community groups in rural and regional communities in the face of COVID-19.
“Young people in rural and regional communities have been significantly affected by COVID-19, from trying to learn online via dodgy internet connections, increased social isolation, job losses and increased mental stress,” says Katherine Ellis, CEO of Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic), the peak body for young people and the youth sector in Victoria.
“Yet young people, youth workers and communities have all stepped up and found new ways to stay connected and continue to make a positive difference on people’s lives.”
This year’s awards will showcase the exceptional examples in rural and regional Victoria of local, place-based youth engagement, youth participation, innovation, and co-design with award categories for Young Person Leading Change, Youth Worker Making a Difference, Outstanding Youth Project or Program, and the Rural Hall of Fame.
“Rural and regional communities understand their local context and people best, and the 2020 YACVic Rural Youth Awards are an outstanding opportunity to celebrate the strength and resilience of our young people and our communities,” says Ms Ellis.
Nominations are open now and close 11.59pm Monday 19 October. Finalists will be announced at the end of October.
To nominate someone you know, visit yacvic.org.au/rya2020.
Media contact: Katia Pellicciotta (she/her), YACVic Media and Communications Coordinator on 9267 3744 or KPellicciotta@YACVic.org.au, a number of YACVic staff are available for interviews depending on location.
About Youth Affairs Council Victoria Rural (YACVic Rural)
YACVic Rural is a key service of YACVic which provides targeted state-wide advocacy for young people in regional communities and the rural youth sector. YACVic is the peak body and leading advocate for young people aged 12–25 and youth workers in Victoria. Our vision is that young Victorians have their rights upheld and are valued as active participants in their communities.