Council’s annual Youth Engagement Meeting was today flipped from the traditional formal meeting at the High School to a more inclusive environment where young people were free to have their say, given they will be the most impacted in the future by today’s decisions.

The relaxed and positive atmosphere of the session saw the students from Kiama High, Ss Peter & Paul, Kiama PS and Minnamurra PS mingle with each other, councillors and staff while commenting on Council’s open spaces and housing strategies.

Youth Services Director, Melissa Andrews, says there was a real leveling of adult and young people.

“From what I’m seeing and hearing, I think it went fabulously. Young people are saying that they feel valued which was quite moving to hear,” Ms Andrews says.

“The Councillors involved were willing to just listen, and were really taking what was said on board."

They heard of activities that are missing in the area, ideas to keep young people in the area and concerns about the affordability of housing.

Kiama High School captain, Josh Hefren, was impressed by everyone raising their hand to get involved.

“The issues related to all kids from year six through to year eleven. The format was nice, easy and good fun,” Josh says.

Other students in attendance said they felt grateful, accepted, confident and encouraged throughout the experience.

A videographer from Kiama High School was there to film the process, as well as a visual storyteller (above) to show a visual representation of the meeting.

A report of the meeting will be compiled and sent to Council, and be available to the public through the business papers.