Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is thrilled to announce a new YACVic Young Thinker in Residence position created in partnership with the Victorian Government’s Office for Youth.
YACVic is the peak body and leading advocate for young people and the youth sector in Victoria. The innovative Young Thinker in Residence program employs young people to research and advocate on a social policy topic. Previous Young Thinkers have focused on family violence and transitions from out-of-home care.
“YACVic passionately believes that young people are the experts in their own lives. We are proud to support young Victorians to think on social and political issues alongside the Office for Youth," Leo Fieldgrass, YACVic CEO said. “The Young Thinker is Residence program is a chance for young people to lead the conversations on issues that affect them.”
The Andrews Labor Government is amplifying the voices of young Victorians by helping establishing a YACVic Young Thinker in Residence. The Young Thinker will have the opportunity to work with YACVic and the Office for Youth on the theme of improving intergenerational relationships between younger and older Victorians.
The Labor Government has contributed $20,000 for the role, which will allow the Young Thinker to develop practical skills in research, advocacy and policy, access leadership and development opportunities, and build professional networks, while also receiving mentorship.
The Minister for Youth Affairs, Jenny Mikakos, MP said that “We’re providing young people with opportunities to influence and provide advice to government. The YACVic Young Thinker will explore how to improve social connectedness between younger and older Victorians and better help us create a harmonious Victoria.”
Over an eight week period, the successful applicant will be employed three days per week to work with YACVic and the Office for Youth. The Young Thinker will be supported by dedicated mentors; develop practical skills in research, advocacy and policy; access leadership and development opportunities and build professional networks. Applications open today, Monday 13 August.
Applications for the Young Thinker in Residence position close midday Monday 27 August 2018. The Young Thinker will start in the role the week beginning Monday 10 September.
For more information about YACVic’s Young Thinker in Residence program, or to apply for the position, visit www.yacvic.org.au or call 9267 3799.
Further comment: Leo Fieldgrass – CEO, Youth Affairs Council Victoria – 0439 254 667 or ceo@yacvic.org.au.