We're proud to share that two of our exceptional youth workers, Blade and Shikara, were invited to speak at this year's Fairground Conference, hosted by the Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia (YACWA) on Friday 13 June.
The theme for Fairground 2025 was “Connecting for Change”, and Blade and Shikara contributed their expertise through a powerful presentation titled “Responding to Change for Educational Perseverance.”
Their session explored the evolving challenges young people face in education—and how a responsive, strengths-based approach can create meaningful pathways to success.
For Shikara, the inspiration for their presentation came directly from the young people at The Y School, whose resilience and determination drive the team’s work every day.
“Many young people have walked through our doors with complex stories and unique challenges, which they have been able to overcome through access to the right supports and holistic care,” Shikara shared.
“Our work reflects creative thinking, problem-solving, opportunity development, and ongoing enthusiasm for creating spaces that are in direct response to young people's feedback.”
Blade echoed this, highlighting the central role of connection in educational perseverance.
“Connection is the basis of all our work,” Blade said. “We want young people to be seen as their authentic selves, heard in their values and visions, and consulted for change that they feel is necessary - both personally and socially.”
Together, Blade and Shikara shared stories, strategies, and reflections that resonated with sector colleagues across WA. Their presentation served as a reminder of the importance of listening to young people, empowering them to be their own advocates, and building environments where they feel safe, capable and valued.
We’re incredibly proud of Blade and Shikara for representing the Y WA and the Y School with such insight and integrity. Congratulations on this well-deserved opportunity to share your work and inspire others in the youth sector.
Read more reflections from Blade and Shikara below.
