2009 Young Social Pioneers
FYA searches for the 2009 Young Social Pioneers of Australia
FYA Media Release – 1 April 2009
Young Social Pioneers invests in the power and promise of Australia’s young leaders. Launching on 1 April 2009, the program, which is an initiative of The Foundation for Young Australians (FYA), strengthens, supports and celebrates the role of young people in creating positive change in their communities.
In its first year, Young Social Pioneers is based on the International Youth Foundation’s global initiative, which has supported 140 young social pioneers from 55 countries, including nine Australians. It recognises that in the face of urgent social challenges – poverty, climate change, HIV/AIDS, homelessness – young people are exercising their leadership potential like never before. Their energy and instinct for making a difference drive them to take risks, to look beyond obstacles, and to develop innovative solutions.
Adam Smith, CEO of FYA said, “Young Social Pioneers is about empowering socially conscious young people, who create positive change in their communities, to become successful leaders. The program offers them ideas, resources and connections that will make their great work even more impactful and sustainable.”
Ten to fourteen aspiring young leaders, who are up to something great in their communities, could gain a place on the all expenses paid program. The program enables young leaders to harness their pioneering spirit by creating collaborative learning environments that maximise their valuable contributions to their communities. They will be provided with professional mentoring, training, networking, skill building, learning and recognition for their work.
- Applications open on 1 April and close 26 June
- Applicants must be between 18 and 29 years of age and have been actively working on an idea for six months
- Areas of work can include education, environment, health, human rights, performing and visual arts, politics, science and technology, social justice and wellbeing
Past recipients of the global initiative from Australia include Anna Rose, Co-Director of AYCC; David Bacon, Founder of Carpets for Communities; Richard Lenn, Foundation of YouthGAS; and Jonathan Greenacre, Founder of Step Safe. For further information, profiles of past global recipients or to apply visit www.youngsocialpioneers.org.au.
