The skills and achievements of young Victorians will be celebrated with a month-long festival.
Youth Fest is a program of 111 events being held right across Victoria throughout September.
From live music, art and filmmaking to sustainable gardening, Youth Fest 2023 is supported by the federal government and features events designed for Victorians and by young Victorians.
Grants of $2,000 have been awarded to youth sector organisations, local government, and schools to develop events in partnership with Victorians aged 12 to 25.
This investment helps young people to organise and deliver events, highlight their skills, share ideas, build social connections, and expand their networks.
The launch was held at the not-for-profit Moon Rabbit Café in Preston, where young trainees get the chance to hone their hospitality skills as part of Bridge Darebin’s work-readiness training program.
Bridge Darebin offers vocational and life skills training to young people who may face employment challenges, including those with disability, mental health barriers and First Nations youth.
The café will host ‘Reimagining Monday’ on September 18, with trainees taking over full operation of the social enterprise for the day.
For the full Youth Fest program, visit vic.gov.au/youth-fest
Preston MP Nathan Lambert said, “I’m delighted to be launching Youth Fest here in Preston at Moon Rabbit Café.
“This month of events provides young people both in Preston and across our state with opportunities to bring their ideas to life and connect with their peers and communities”
