Empowered Young Leaders Workshop

WANADA staff members Rochelle McIntosh and Helin Cimen were delighted to attend the Kimberley Youth Alcohol and Other Drug Workshop, hosted by Empowered Young Leaders in Broome on 18–19 September.

The workshop created a valuable space for young people from across the Kimberley to come together and share their experiences, perspectives, and priorities regarding alcohol and other drugs.

The Kimberley Aboriginal Regional Governance Group (KARGG) and Empowered Young Leaders, in partnership with Milliya Rumurra Aboriginal Corporation, are leading a community-driven process to design a culturally sustainable service that supports young people and families with alcohol and other drug concerns and reflects the community’s priorities. WANADA is pleased to be part of the project in a supporting role.

It was encouraging to witness young people leading conversations about the future of the Kimberley Youth AOD Service while advocating for a service model that remains youth-led, culturally grounded, and responsive to emerging needs.

WANADA thanks the Empowered Young Leaders for hosting the gathering and extends appreciation to the young people, local services, and community members who contributed their insights.