Pormpuraaw youth are ready for another week of fun-filled leadership activities after getting colourful at the community’s 2023 Youth Summit. Photo: Christine Howes.
Pormpuraaw is gearing up for this year’s Youth Summit with sports, activities, mentoring and stakeholders combining to empower and upskill young people in the community.
The summit is set to be run by the Pormpur Paanthu Aboriginal Corporation (PPAC) over four days, from 17-20 September, during the school holiday break.
PPAC chief executive officer Ganthi Kuppusamy said the annual event had been highly successful in engaging young people.
“In the past, we did it once every three years, but because it’s become a very popular event in Pormpuraaw, we’ve made it an annual event,” she said.
“We’re providing all of these program activities for the youth – acknowledging them, empowering them, and providing early intervention.”
PPAC’s Pormpuraaw Youth Summit was recognised as a finalist in the community category at this year’s Queensland Reconciliation Awards.
The full program is yet to be announced but yearly favourites, such as the healthy breakfast and the sporting activities, will make a return.
The centrepiece of this year’s summit will be a workshop on key life skills led by cancer survivor, AFL fan and youth worker Marc Harbrow.
“We are passionate about assisting young people and their communities to strive for better health and educational outcomes, with sports being a primary vehicle to a healthy and balanced lifestyle,” Mr Harbrow said.
“Learning how to lead others, as well as work positively as part of a team, is an essential key for success in life, and genuine change requires strong mentoring and support.”
Although sports will be a major part of the summit, Ms Kuppusamy said there would be plenty of other activities and learning opportunities for the young people to enjoy.
“There’s also going to be other activities, like a colour run, disco, art, and a bit of on-Country activities,” Ms Kuppusamy said.
“It’s not just about sports, but it’s also education, wellbeing, learning, and health services – there’s a lot happening that week.”
