Ahead of Victoria's largest gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, the Koorie Youth Council boss says their voices have been ignored in the important issues impacting the community.

Since 2014, the Koorie Youth Summit has brought young mob aged from around the state together to inspire one another towards being the next generation of positive change in a "ripple effect".

The summit heads to Yorta Yorta Country in May, with 2025's theme 'Wisdom to Power: Purpose, Passion, and Action,' reflecting on the work of previous generations of Aboriginal Victorians, and the future of action they'll do.

"Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria are rarely given genuine space to share their voices, aspirations and experiences," Koorie Youth Council acting chief executive Leyla Quartermaine said.

"In the wake of the failed referendum and ongoing challenges like bail reform, our voices have been pushed aside.

"The Summit reminds us that our voices matter, we matter, and that there's strength and hope in coming together as a community. It's more than just an event—it's a movement grounded in culture, connection, and self-determination."

Between 150-200 people attended the 2024 Summit in Naarm.

Jye Charles, Community Engagement Facilitator at the Koorie Youth Council, says this year's convening comes after a challenging few years.

"We want the 2025 Koorie Youth Summit to focus on connection and grounding. With the exciting opportunity to host on beautiful Yorta Yorta Land, this Summit will be extra special," he said.

"After such a challenging past couple of years for our communities, we want young mob to come together to share space, feel empowered, and leave the Summit strengthened in the knowledge that their voices matter—that they matter.

"The Summit isn't just a one-off event; it has ripple effects in the lives of all young mob who attend. In a frightening time in the world, events like the annual Koorie Youth Summit are crucial for our wellbeing and connection to one another."

Mr Charles says to properly make positive change, the diversity of opinions, positions and voices from all across the state need to be included.

Media personality Megan Waters has been named keynote speaker for 2025's summit.

"Since its inception, the Koorie Youth Summit has been a space where young mob in Victoria can feel comfortable, welcome, and their voices listened to," Ms Quartermaine added.

"Often, we see and hear in the media our people always being spoken about in a deficit. Our young mob are much more than that—we are powerful, intelligent, and resilient."