A first of its kind youth arts café in Goonellabah is gearing up to train young people and get them started on their careers. 

Set to open in August, the café builds on the work of the YWCA with help from a $195,000 grant from the NSW Government.

YWCA Northern NSW regional manager Kayeleen Brown said the cafe will run two days a week when it opens and create a safe space for young people to socialise and contribute to the operation of the café and arts projects.

It also offer programs in music, visual art and movement with local artists and mentors- as well as access to a technology hub program to increase skills in digital design.

Practical support will also be available to young people through the program with access and referrals offered to services such as learner driver, employment and training, and health and wellbeing programs.

“It’s about putting young people first,” Ms Brown said.

“This Youth Arts Café with an arts component is the first of its kind in our region, and will offer many opportunities for young people to shine and showcase their skills and talent. 

“We are absolutely delighted to have this opportunity to work with local young people aged 16-24 to co-design and create a safe space at YWCA Goonellabah for young people to connect, develop confidence and enhance their skills and wellbeing.

“We invite all young people and other local providers to contact us on 02 6625 5800 if they are interested in being involved.”

The structure of the Café is designed to connect young people to community through events and exhibitions; create a sense of place and belonging by providing activities that build resilience and self-worth; develop confidence and increase youth participation in the local community.

Nationals Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin congratulated the Youth Arts Café on creating such an innovative program.

“The Youth Arts Café is offering a wonderful opportunity for young people to build skills, networks and creativity to help them create job pathways in the future,” Mr Franklin said.

“Our communities are facing an incredibly challenging time at the moment and it’s so important that when life goes ‘back to normal’ young people know there are programs dedicated to them, to help them get on their feet.

“This is a great program and I’m delighted the Nationals in Government have been able to help make it happen.”