JUNIOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

The Hon. A. BRESSINGTON (15:51): Sounds like a song! I rise today to inform members of a relatively new program to help and guide our junior youth here in Adelaide. Although this is a national program, it is new to Adelaide. This program has been put together by the Baha'i Faith which promotes that everyone is equal in unity, peace and friendship. However, this does not mean that this is a religious program. In fact, there is very little involvement with the faith within the curriculum.

The basis of the program is to prepare our junior youth from the ages of 12 to 15 as they strive towards becoming adults and to allow them an understanding of their potential. It helps them to evolve through their teenage years and it is designed to give them confidence to make positive decisions in their lives. They learn self-expression and, for many, involve themselves in their artistic side: drama, storytelling and actively becoming involved in community service. Not only does this program help prepare them for the future but it also encourages a strong social aspect, such as sports and social outings.

Each group has what they call animators—one male and one female. Both of these animators are still in their late teens, say, 16 to 18. Each of these animators must undergo stringent police checks and be of good character. The animators or group leaders are there to win the confidence of and to become good friends with the younger ones, and perhaps to be seen as a role model or mentor to steer the young ones in the right direction, through their communication.

Some of the outcomes that the organisation has suggested would be: development of comprehension and critical thinking; enhancing presentation skills; acquiring an interest in artistic expression; the ability to analyse complex situations while reading; and teamwork and leadership skills. They could also realise their own capacity to contribute to the betterment of society. Another area, the power of expression, allows them to speak with confidence so others may be inspired by what they have to say. The focus is also on equality, generosity, cooperation and creativity.

As the organisers have said, the curriculum identifies junior youth as a reservoir of talent and energy which can be channelled to make significant and positive contributions to society. We are all aware of the social pressures facing our youth of today as they enter and progress through their teenage years, and that this is a time of make or break in many instances. This is where the focus of this program becomes important.

On the last Sunday of each month there is a get-together at the Peter McKay Reserve at Kilburn, called Spark in the Park. Staff from my office went to the one last Sunday and informed me that there were all kinds of activities: soccer, quoits, a barbecue and a trading tent where people from around the neighbourhood bring all sorts of things—from vegetables to clothes and toys—to swap with one another. This program is available to youth of any nationality and it is important for any young teens wishing to enrol in this program that they have full permission of their parents.