Mission Australia and Vodafone Australia Foundation launch innovative Youth Arts Project (YAP) in Tasmania

Mission Australia and the Vodafone Australia Foundation today launched an innovative Youth Arts Project (YAP) which engages young people in a program with a local artist to develop their creative talents.

Mission Australia’s Tasmanian Operations Manager Noel Mundy said the arts based program aims to foster positive relationships between the students and the local community as well as providing them with an exciting and fun learning experience.

“Ten students from Riverside High School, Kings Meadows High School, Prospect High School, Brooks High School and Queechy High School will attend the 12-week course, two days a week, learning art and life skills,” Mr Mundy said.

“Local Tasmanian artist Gardie Palmer will teach the students sculpture, ceramics, animation and illustration skills, ending with a public exhibition of finished works on completion of the program.
“The YAP course will be based at the Youth Studio at the Queen Victoria Museum with the final exhibition to be held at the Powerhouse Gallery located at the Inveresk Railway Yards.”

Mr Mundy said the project aims to build self esteem, confidence and involve the student to the wider Launceston community in a positive way.

“YAP provides participants with creative opportunities to build self esteem, improve communication skills and encounter positive learning opportunities,” he said.

The YAP program is possible thanks to the generous support of the Vodafone Australia Foundation and Vodafone staff in Tasmania who will be providing hands on support throughout the course.

Vodafone Australian Foundation Director David Allen said the organisation was pleased to be a part of YAP as it provided a positive opportunity to empower young people.

“This project gives young Tasmanians who don’t have a voice, a way to communicate their thoughts and feelings through a creative outlet,” Mr Allen said.

The Youth Arts Program was also successfully held in southern Tasmania where the students produced a community wall mural and one student secured employment due to his attendance in the program.

Mission Australia helps disadvantaged Tasmanians regain their lives and independence by providing employment and training as well as inspiring youth initiatives.

For more information or to arrange an interview or photo with the Youth Art Program students and artist, please contact: Lucinda Bray, Beyond PR, 0438 280 486