At the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, we believe young people should have a say in shaping the world they live in, especially when it comes to the systems, services and policies designed to keep them safe. That’s why we’ve launched our Youth Engagement Program, a national initiative that puts young people at the heart of our work.
Launched earlier this year, the Youth Engagement Program is designed to ensure that the voices, ideas and experiences of young people directly influence what we do at the Alannah & Madeline Foundation and Dolly’s Dream.
Through a one-year commitment, this volunteer program offers young people aged 16–25 the chance to work on real-world projects and contribute to lasting change, while gaining valuable personal and professional development.
Empowering the next generation
The Youth Engagement Program (YEP) provides young people with a unique opportunity to build skills, form connections, and take part in meaningful projects across the Foundation’s key focus areas—including digital safety, children’s rights, advocacy, trauma-informed practice, media, and fundraising.
Each participant is supported to explore their interests and develop new skills through a series of six structured sessions delivered every two months. These sessions include expert-led workshops and optional opportunities to contribute to projects between meetings.
This program is a direct expression of our commitment to the principle of “nothing about us, without us”—ensuring young people are active contributors to the decisions, programs and advocacy efforts that impact their lives.
What we've heard so far
The first two sessions of the program have already demonstrated the power and insight of youth-led perspectives. In our strategy and digital safety sessions, participants—affectionately known as YEPPERS—shared their views on how youth-focused organisations can better support children and young people.
Key themes included:
Mental health and emotional safety
Participants stressed the importance of supporting mental wellbeing, especially for young men, and suggested school-based programs to normalise emotional expression and provide spaces for connection.
Digital safety and literacy
YEPPERS identified a need for early education on social media risks, digital footprints, and online scams—including those involving emerging technologies like AI. They advocated for resources that empower both students and adults to navigate the digital world safely.
Safe environments and supportive adults
Creating safe and inclusive physical and digital spaces—particularly in schools—was a recurring priority. Young people emphasised the role of teachers and trusted adults in fostering environments where children feel protected and heard.
Access and equity
Participants called for more equitable access to out-of-school opportunities, especially for young people in disadvantaged or rural areas, and highlighted the importance of inclusive resources that reflect the diversity of classroom and community settings.
Trauma awareness advocacy
From advocating for courts to better listen to young people in family violence situations, to introducing trauma-informed education in schools, YEPPERS have made clear the need for systemic changes that better support vulnerable children and youth.
This feedback is already influencing the Foundation's work and will continue to guide program development and advocacy priorities in the months ahead.
A new model for youth engagement
The Youth Engagement Program isn’t a traditional advisory group—it’s a dynamic, scaffolded program where participants are not only heard but equipped and empowered to lead.
Each session combines training in areas like media, advocacy, and strategic planning with chances to apply those skills directly. Optional project work ensures that involvement is flexible, interest-driven, and well-supported.
As the program continues, we look forward to learning from the diverse voices in the group and working together to create a safer world for children and young people—wherever they live, learn, and play.
