Engaging with Young People: Consultation, Partnership, and Leadership
By Jackson | 24 | Wollongong
In today’s world, it's more important than ever for organisations, whether they're in education, business, or community projects, to connect with young people. Why?
Because young minds bring fresh, innovative ideas that can revolutionise the way we think and work.
Recognising this, the Australian Government introduced the ‘Engage!’ initiative, underlining the fact that young people hold the keys to understanding and solving the issues they face, shaping policies for a better tomorrow.
Yet, engaging with young people isn’t just about checking a box; it’s about creating meaningful conversations and partnerships. Whether it’s in schools or businesses, simply asking for opinions isn’t enough. We need to dive deeper, involve young individuals in real decision-making processes, and listen to what they have to say right from the start.
The Ladder of Youth Engagement
Understanding how to effectively involve young people can be a game-changer. Here’s a breakdown of some different engagement strategies that both organisations and young people can benefit from:
Consultation
Think of consultation as the first step. But beware, it's not just about asking questions to say you did. To truly benefit, start engaging with young individuals early in the process, and keep them involved. This ensures their feedback isn’t just heard but is also actionable.
Partnership
More and more, partnerships between young people and experienced adults are forming, especially in education. These partnerships work best when everyone is actively involved, sharing a balanced mix of perspectives and experiences. Diversity within these groups is crucial for a well-rounded outcome.
Leadership
Leadership takes youth engagement up a notch, giving young people the reins to lead projects. This autonomy can lead to innovative and genuine solutions. However, passion alone isn’t enough; organisations should provide support, like funding or resources, to keep the momentum going.
Membership
Membership involves young people directly as a part of the decision-making bodies (e.g., the board). For this to work, organisations need to ensure there are supports in place to balance the dynamics, and perhaps consider including multiple young members for peer support in larger committees.
Making the Most of Your Role
For young individuals eager to make a difference, here are some tips to ensure your voice is heard and valued:
Always ask questions, whether you’re preparing for a meeting, during one, or reflecting afterward.
Share your unique perspective; it’s why you are there.
Use this opportunity to build your network and find mentors who can guide you, support you, and contribute to your future.
Remember, the more you invest in these roles, whether through partnership, leadership, or as a member, the more you’ll gain. It’s about leveraging your knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm to make a real impact.
In the end, the goal is to create a relationship built on reciprocity, where organisations benefit from the fresh perspectives of young people, and young individuals learn, grow, and influence the world around them. This type of collaboration paves the way for innovative solutions shaped by diverse perspectives.
The views expressed in AYAC’S youth blog are personal and and not an endorsement of AYAC; we value and encourage the diverse perspectives of young people.