What happens when young people are given a genuine seat at the table?

In this special episode of Better Together South Shoalhaven, we hand the microphones to six inspiring youth leaders from across the Milton–Ulladulla region. From kindness campaigns and mentoring initiatives, to creating inclusive hangout spaces and designing local events, these young changemakers share the projects they’re leading and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

You’ll hear their reflections on what young people bring to community life, the challenges they face, and their advice for groups that want to engage youth but don’t know how. Their message is clear: when youth are listened to, respected, and given real roles, they bring energy, creativity, and solutions that benefit everyone.

🎧 Tune in to Episode 9 and be inspired by the voices shaping the future of our region.

This is our last episode of the season, so if you've been connecting with the podcast and finding value in the voices of our region, please share. You'll be hearing from us again in season 3.

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What does it take for community groups to not just welcome young people, but to work alongside them as equal contributors? In this episode of Better Together, we hear from passionate youth and community members about breaking down barriers, making room for fresh ideas, and creating spaces where young people’s voices genuinely shape the future. From rethinking meeting times and communication styles to offering real leadership opportunities, these stories highlight what happens when communities choose to work with youth, not just for them.

Listen in and be inspired to make your group a place where the next generation can truly thrive.

Our featured interview for this week was with Treading Lightly. You can find treading Lightly online at

https://tlinc.org.au/

And to find out more about any of the groups featured, head to

https://communityconnectss.com.au/

🎧 Listen now to discover practical steps and heartfelt insights into building youth-inclusive spaces.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we step into the exciting world of youth-led innovation in the South Shoalhaven. You’ll hear from passionate young changemakers as they pitch bold, creative ideas for a stronger, more inclusive community. From safer public transport to rehearsal spaces for young musicians, these students aren’t just dreaming—they’re designing real-world solutions.

We’re also joined by Sophie Linehan and students from the Country Universities Centre, who share how regional students can access study spaces, mentoring, and career pathways without leaving town. Her insights reveal how places like CUC can act as critical support systems for young people looking to stay local and thrive.

🎧 Listen as we explore what happens when young people are invited to the table—and adults pull up a chair beside them.

Featured Projects

· 🚍 Get the Wheel Rolling – A push for better public transport in and around Ulladulla

· 🎶 Youth Music Hub – Affordable rehearsal spaces and a collaborative network for young musicians

· 🧠 NeuroStation – A safe, welcoming hangout space for neurodivergent and disabled teens

· 💙 Muck Up – A youth-led kindness campaign tackling bullying with creativity and care – in its 3rd year!

· 🎪 Milton Show Teen Program – Youth voices shaping a show that includes and excites them

· 🌙 Youth Night Market – A social enterprise-style market focused on affordability, connection, and purpose

· 🔦 Pathways to Purpose – A mentorship movement matching students with real-world mentors

· 🎓 Plus: Country Universities Centre Southern Shoalhaven – Supporting young people to study, connect, and succeed locally

🎧 Listen to “It Starts With an Idea” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or communityconnectss.com.au

📣 Share this episode and help support youth-led change in the South Shoalhaven.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.