MYAN supports the development of young people’s leadership skills and networks to create change in their communities and engage in advocacy to influence the national and international agenda. We do this through our national Youth Ambassador’s Network (YAN), our bi-annual national multicultural youth summit, FUSE, supporting young people to engage in advocacy opportunities with government and in national conferences and consultations, and hosting the International Refugee Youth Leadership Scholarship.
Latest MYAN's Youth Leadership
On International Youth Day, MYAN had the privilege of hosting a conversation with two youth advocates; Angelica Ojinnaka-Psillakis, the 2022 UN Youth Representative for Australia, and Princess Kisakye, a member of our Health Youth Advisory Group and an UN Youth Facilitator. These inspiring young leaders shared their journeys into advocacy and their vision for the future. Their insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for all who are passionate about making a difference.
“I did not realise I was a youth advocate until it was being said to me to categorise the things I have been doing….. I was a carer at the age of 9 for my brother who was born with a particular disability and I did not like how the world interacts with people with disability. So, I began to talk about the experiences because I wanted to know if those experiences are not specific to just my family, and that turned into advocacy”, Angelica tells the story of how her actions of speaking up for injustice her brother faced unknowingly turned her into an advocate.
“My vision for youth advocacy is one where we create a truly inclusive society, where young people are supported in their endeavors. To aspiring youth advocates, I say take the stories you’ve heard, seen and experienced and channel them. There will be times where it would feel unrewarding to tackle tough issues, but those stories will keep you going.” Princess’ said as she pictures her vision of youth advocacy. If you haven’t yet, consider watching or listening to the conversation while you’re walking or driving—I’m confident you’ll come away feeling inspired.
Welcome to our incredible new advocates who form the MYAN Health YAG! This dynamic team of young leaders is set to advise on MYAN’s current health projects, shaping key activities with a critical youth perspective. By leveraging their local networks, they will play a pivotal role in representing the diverse needs and voices of their states and territories. With their invaluable insights and strong leadership skills, the Health YAG is poised to drive impactful change and ensure that MYAN’s health initiatives are truly reflective of the communities they serve.
At MYAN, we recognise the unique experiences and particular needs of refugee children and young people. Providing them with access to education, healthcare, legal assistance, and safe living conditions is crucial. This Refugee Week, we are committed to amplifying their voices and sharing their stories. We celebrate the resilience and strength of young refugees and asylum-seekers and their families and communities, acknowledging the unique challenges they face, especially amidst the current violence and conflicts exacerbating the refugee crisis.
Read it here: https://mailchi.mp/myan/refugee-week-2024-myan
Let’s celebrate the extraordinary contributions of our Youth Ambassadors Network (YAN) over the past 18 months! Our YAN is comprised of diverse young individuals from migrant and refugee backgrounds all across Australia, and our ambassadors have played a critical role in shaping MYAN’s policy and advocacy initiatives. As their YAN term ends, MYANs extend our heartfelt gratitude to each Youth Ambassador for their invaluable advice and advocacy efforts.
To our Youth Ambassadors, you are all brilliant individuals who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and a profound commitment to making a difference for young people in Australia. As you conclude your term, know that your influence will continue to resonate here at MYAN and beyond. We are confident that you will continue to make positive and lasting change in your respective spheres.