The Ethnic Youth Council (EYC) is a group facilitated by Spectrum consisting of young people aged 15 to 25 years who are passionate about becoming leaders in their communities and representing their peers in addressing issues faced by young Australians, particularly those from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

Purpose

The EYC's values are based on young people working for young people to:

• Inspire youth to actively participate in fun and stimulating diverse projects
• Provide opportunities for young people to be connected with their communities
• Ensure they are respected as individuals and get a fair go
• Provide opportunities for young people to advocate for their needs

Background

From Spectrum's many years of involvement with migrant and refugee communities, two of the common themes expressed to them by young people were:

• A desire to have their own dedicated voice; and
• Availability of organised ethnic-youth friendly social activities

Taking this into account, Spectrum recognised the potential to empower migrant and refugee youth by creating a group for young people to advocate for their needs directly and to organise events that would meet their cultural and social needs. After being granted funding for 3 years by the Office for Youth, the Ethnic Youth Council was established in May, 2006 and re-funded in 2009.

In February 2007, the first EYC Executive Committee was elected, bringing the EYC a strong step closer to forming a powerful body that represents the diversity of young people living in Melbourne.

Activities and Achievements:

• Victoria’s Multicultural Awards for Excellence 2009
  Participation in the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) seminar
• VMC Refugee Recognition Record 2006 - 4 members received the award
• "Go With Da FLOW" program, involving training provided by Metropolitan Ambulance Service, Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Victoria Police, Youthlaw and Spectrum
• "Freedom of Art" Expo
• Participation in YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament 2007
• Participation in Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme
• Continuing representation at various local, national and international conferences and forums on issues specific to CALD youth
• Girls' Indoor Soccer program for ages 12 to 25 - Fridays from 4pm at Merrilands Community Centre

The EYC meets on Wednesdays every fortnight at Spectrum MRC - 251 High St, Preston from 5:30pm

For more information and to get involved, please contact Peter Ajak, EYC Project Officer, on (03) 9496 0200 or email petera@spectrumvic.org.au .