17 November 2009

Locals Paint a Picture of Hope

Young people in the Tweed Shire aim to tackle youth depression and suicide through art, poetry and conversation.

The Check Ur Head! project brought together a group aged from 13 to 25 who told personal stories of hardship and struggle, strength and hope, in a bid to shed light on the challenges faced by an increasing number of today’s youth.

Supported by local community-based organisations, New Horizons and St Josephs Youth Service, the project provided a forum for young people to express their thoughts and feelings through visual art, media and prose.

Shana Lazer, a support worker at New Horizons, describes the initiative. “We wanted to support young people to build self esteem and develop confidence through self expression”

The group was involved in making face masks, writing poetry and producing other forms of art, including an educational DVD that chronicles the project.

“Hopefully their personal stories can be used to educate, inspire and help others” Shana said of the DVD, which will be available to schools and other community organisations.

“The group was empowered to take ownership at every stage of the project. Each has shown tremendous courage and commitment throughout the process” explained Gerina Appo from St Joseph’s Youth Service. “From their strength, others may find hope”

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