A new podcast series designed to elevate the voices of young Aboriginal people has been launched at Parliament House in Victoria.
The Youth Yarning with Mob podcast features young Aboriginal participants interviewing community leaders and members of parliament about advocacy, leadership and the role young people can play in shaping the future.
It is a collaboration between the Koorie Academy and the Parliament of Victoria and it will explore issues of leadership, identity and democracy.
Koorie Academy chief executive Uncle Ricky Baldwin said it was significant to launch the project inside Parliament House, describing it as an important place for decision-making and leadership.
He said the podcast series was about giving young Aboriginal people the opportunity to speak openly and be genuinely heard.
"The Youth Yarning with Mob podcast series is about creating space - a space where young people can speak openly, share their experiences, their ideas, and their hopes for the future," Mr Baldwin said.
"Too often, decisions are made about young people without truly listening to them, this project changes that."
Legislative Assembly Speaker Maree Edwards said the partnership behind the project had created benefits for both parliament and the young people involved.
"Partnerships matter and they matter a lot and particularly for our parliament because they bring parliament and community together," Ms Edwards said.
"They create real opportunities for learning and understanding not just for the young people who've been involved in this particular series but for parliament as well.
"I am sure all of the young participants have gained new skills and a deep insight into how parliament works.
"And, just as importantly, parliament of course and our wonderful staff here at the parliament, who have assisted along the way, they have benefited from working alongside such a dedicated group of young people who bring fresh perspectives on a project that will make a real impact."
The launch began with project participant Jandamurra Lauricella, a proud Wotjobalak man, delivering an Acknowledgment of Country for the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation.
Moving between Traditional Language and English, Mr Lauricella helped set the tone for the event.
A meet and greet followed the formalities, allowing guests to connect, share stories and continue conversations sparked by the project.
During the launch, the efforts of the young people who helped bring the series to life were recognised.
Legislative Council President Shaun Leane presented certificates of appreciation to Ruby Shepherd, Leah Murray-Noble, Shayden Ismat, Djamari Hunter, Bianca Baldwin and Jandamurra Lauricella.
The podcast series will be released over the coming weeks through the Parliament of Victoria's YouTube channel.
