Empowering regional youth in Kempsey to connect and thrive
Young people from across the Macleay Valley are invited to register for Connect and Thrive – Pathways, a dynamic, free event focused on building leadership skills, making real-world connections and preparing for future opportunities.
The event will take place at the Slim Dusty Centre on Thursday, 22 May and will equip young people aged 15 to 20 with the tools, networks and confidence they need to shape their futures.
Delivered by the NSW Office for Regional Youth, Connect and Thrive is a direct response to feedback from the 2024 Your Voice, Our Future consultation and NSW Youth Summit, where young people called for more meaningful, face to face engagement in their own communities.
The agenda includes a youth-led networking session, a leadership and communication skills workshop and a Pitch It session featuring local businesses, councils and community groups sharing opportunities for youth employment and engagement.
Another highlight is the Think Tank session, where young people will collaborate with their peers to co-design solutions to the challenges they face in their communities.
Registration is free, but essential. To register, go to: https://tinyurl.com/connectandthrivekempsey
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Director for Regional Youth, Julia Ryan encouraged young people from across the Macleay Valley to register and take part.
“Young people have told us they want us to meet them where they are, feel part of the conversation and be involved in shaping the future of their communities. Connect and Thrive is one of the ways we’re listening and responding,” said Julia.
“These events are about more than skills and jobs, they’re about creating a welcoming space where young people feel seen, heard and supported to lead positive change in their own communities.”
Kempsey Shire Mayor, Kinne Ring said Connect and Thrive is a great example of working with local young people to create stronger, more connected communities in the Macleay.
“This day is about recognising the potential in our backyard,” Mayor Ring said.
“We have incredibly talented young people and it’s great to see an event like this supporting their leadership development, their confidence in pursuing opportunities and their ability to contribute to a positive future.”
Local young person, Maddie Lipscombe said events like this give young people a voice, allowing us to feel seen and heard.
“I’m really looking forward to meeting other young people, hearing their stories, and getting inspired by their ideas. It’s exciting to be part of something that brings people together, especially the young members of our community, to make a difference,” Maddie said.
YP SPACE MNC outreach manager Deb Tougher said the Connect and Thrive event has the potential to significantly help young people access local job opportunities by bridging the gap that currently exists between youth and the business sector.
“In Kempsey, many young people face complex challenges and are often not portrayed positively in the community or media. This event will create a space where young people can be seen in a different light—one that highlights their strengths, potential, and willingness to engage,” Deb said.
“I’m really looking forward to providing our young people that are residing in temporary accommodation with opportunities that they would not normally have access to.
This event forms part of the NSW Government’s commitment to ensuring young people in regional NSW have the tools, support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Connect and Thrive will continue with events in Parkes on Tuesday 3 June and Albury on Thursday 5 June, providing more opportunities for regional youth to engage and have their voices heard in their communities.
Media contact
For more information, please contact: media@dpird.nsw.gov.au