FUSE 2014 - Panel sessions

Panel sessions were held on Day 2, with experienced advocates and Day 3, with MPs and the National Children’s Commissioner. 

The session on Day 2 was designed to: 

(i) give participants a practical idea of engaging in advocacy, 

(ii) increase delegates’ understanding of the diversity and opportunities involved in advocacy work, 

(iii) build confidence by asking questions and hearing practical stories from people’s experience, 

(iv) connect with diverse and experienced advocates, 

(v) inspire delegates to engage in advocacy and active citizenship and (vi) learn some key strategies for engaging with MPs. 

The panellists reflected diverse advocacy experiences relevant to the youth and multicultural context and included: Jan Muhuntan (UN), Kate Pasterfield (Chief of Staff to Min. for Youth), Pete Dawson (Recognise This campaign), Alphonse Mulumba (Labor Party candidate in TAS state government), Nadine Liddy (MYAN Australia). The panel was chaired by Amna Karra-Hassan (Multicultural NSW Advisory Board) and Maia Giordano, (MYAN NSW Project Officer). 

The session on Day 3 provided an opportunity for young people to: 

1. apply (newly acquired) advocacy skills and knowledge (including public speaking), 
2. engage in dialogue with MPs/decision makers, and
3. promote key human rights issues and recommendations relating to refugee and migrant young people in Australia. 

Panellists were: Sen. Fierravanti-Wells (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Services, responsibilities for settlement and multicultural services), Mr. Craig Laundy, MP (Member for Reid, NSW), Mr. Matt Kean MP (Member for Hornsby), Ms. Megan Mitchell, National Commissioner for Children.