Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program applications now open

Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Queensland can now apply to participate in this year’s Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (QIYLP).

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Jackie Trad urged eligible people to apply and reap the benefits of QIYLP.

“This program is extremely beneficial to some of our youngest generations as it allows participants to develop their skills and gain valuable leadership experience,” Ms Trad said.

“QIYLP nourishes the ideas of young and emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders – allowing them to grow and create positive change in their communities.”

Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women Di Farmer said the Queensland Indigenous Youth Leadership Program was a wonderful opportunity for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to develop leadership skills and learn about influencing change.

“The program brings together 40 participants from across the state to participate in a six-day residential program where not only will they develop leadership skills but they will also learn about the democratic processes in Queensland,” Ms Farmer said.

“The program is one of the country’s most prestigious and effective Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young leadership programs.

“The young participants will undertake a range of experiences in QIYLP including leadership and professional development workshops, mentoring and networking opportunities and attend parliament workshops.”

“Many of these young people could be Indigenous or community leaders of the future and it is a great chance for them to have this type of experience under their belts as they embark into leadership roles,” Ms Farmer said.

“Applications are now open for those aged 18 to 25 years, for the six-day residential program that will take place in Brisbane from 30 June 2018 to 5 July 2018.

“There has already been more than 450 young people participate in QIYLP since its original inception in 2004 as a three day program, and what is even more pleasing is to see some returning as mentors and co-facilitators at this year’s program.

“I’d urge any young Aboriginal and Torres Strait young person to consider applying for the QIYLP.”

QIYLP is co-delivered by the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women and the Queensland Parliamentary Service, and supported through a partnership with mining company Glencore.

Applications are open now and will close on 4 May 2018.

For more information visit www.qld.gov.au/atsi

Media Contact: Minister Farmer’s office Adrian Taylor 0448 994 172