Young leaders show the way

FORTY-four of Casey’s youth have been presented with certificates after taking part in a Young Leaders Program.
Casey councillor Wayne Smith presented the certificates at two presentation evenings after the students helped develop their leadership skills in the City of Casey program.
The program brings together young people from the Casey community, introducing them to local government and its services and explaining how young people can contribute to their community.
Mayor Colin Butler said the program provided a platform for young people to become involved in their local community and build the practical and theoretical skills to achieve this.
“Not only do students gain the skills and knowledge to become successful young leaders but they form a close bond with the people they undertake the program with,” Cr Butler said.
The program, which ran for five days, entailed a series of personal development workshops on topics such as public speaking, acceptance and diversity, goal setting and effective communication as well as guest speakers including world record holder paralympian Tim Matthews and transplant survivor Sophie Merrell.
Cr Smith said the program helped support and enlighten Casey’s youth and helped them to develop the skills to participate in community life.
“It is very rewarding to see the young people who have finished the program gain the confidence and ability to make a difference in the Casey community.