Ellen and Tom, Year 9 students from Stawell Secondary College.

More than 80 young people participated in a youth forum at Ararat College on Wednesday.

The forum was the second of three youth consultations being undertaken by the Central Grampians Local Learning and Employment Network to encourage youth participation in local decision making.

Forum facilitator, David Wheaton, said he was very impressed with the high level of engagement by students and the issues and ideas they brought forward.

“We have heard directly from young people about the issues that matter to them and have challenged then to come up with their own solutions,”  Mr Wheaton said.

All the issues and ideas identified at the forums are being collated into a region-wide report which will be presented by participants to local auhorities including Ararat Rural City and the Northern Grampians Shire.

Mr Wheaton said the aim of the forums was to model effective community engagement and demonstrate what is possible when you are prepared to speak out and get involved.

“We hope this will be the first step for many young people in becoming active in the community throughout their life, Mr Wheaton said.

The final youth forum will be held at Marian College on 21 June.  Young people wishing to become involved are encouraged to contact LenZone!.