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The ABC Calls For Young Leaders From Regional Australia

Trailblazers program shines a light on young game changers

Applications for the ABC’s Trailblazers program, which showcases the passion of regional Australia’s brightest new leaders, are now open.

Trailblazers is an opportunity for people, aged 18 – 28, who are implementing positive change in their region, to have their work celebrated nationally.

Successful applicants receive an incredible package of support that includes having their story told on the ABC and a trip to the Trailblazer Lab in Canberra next February.

The Lab is a five-day intensive experience, to empower young, regional leaders, share their stories and build their leadership capacity.

Alana Black is passionate about changing the conversation around farming succession. Her project, Fledging Farmers, has gone from strength to strength since she was selected as a Trailblazer last year.

“I can’t even put into words how good Trailblazers was. It gave me clarity on the next step and gave me an environment to answer questions I’ve been running away from,” she said.

Since attending the Trailblazers Lab, Alana has been invited to speak in Scotland about Fledgling Farmers at an international initiative for rural young people.

The ABC and the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and Cities partner on Trailblazers, coming together to support and champion regional young people.

“Trailblazers is a fantastic opportunity for young people making a difference in their communities,” said Michael Mason, Director of ABC Regional and Local.

“We want to tell the stories of Australia’s future leaders – these are the people who will be shaping conversations in years to come.”

Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the Trailblazer program showcases the diversity, creativity and passion of young people living in regional Australia.

“Trailblazers is a fantastic initiative shining a light on some of our brightest young regional entrepreneurs and providing them the opportunity to tell their stories on the ABC, and receive networking, mentoring and media coverage,” Dr McVeigh said.

“Many young people are already helping to address the challenges facing regional Australia and through the Trailblazers program they can reach a broader audience and have the opportunity to put some of their ideas into action.”

Who can apply to be a Trailblazer?
Individuals and groups of up to three, aged 18-28who are initiating projects that create positive change in their communities.  From young community leaders to social entrepreneurs, advocates to event organisers, we’re looking for young people with a commitment to making regional Australia even better.

What do Trailblazers receive?

  • A trip to the Trailblazers Lab in Canberra
  • Their story told on ABC platforms
  • Extensive networking, mentoring and leadership opportunities

 Applications close Friday 13 July 2018, visit abc.net.au/trailblazers.

Trailblazers is run by the ABC’s Heywire regional youth program and supported by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.

Photo: ABC Heywire, Canberra on 4th February, 2018. Photography by MARK GRAHAM

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