Grand Plaza is proud to have developed YOUth Matters, an interactive and educational youth program, with our community partner, yourtown.

This free program is aimed at improving engagement with, and providing support to, young people who frequent the Centre and is tailored to suit the needs and goals of the individuals who attend. The program provides access to core life skills workshops, focusing on interactive personal development and goal setting. Participants are supported by a yourtown youth worker throughout the program and community guest speakers, along with Centre Management representatives, connect with the group to assist in building the participants’ connection to local opportunities and support services.

youtown’s support services for job seeking, school engagement and training programs are an invaluable part of what the program offers to participants. From becoming confident in interviewing for a job, to starting driving lessons, to finding an apprenticeship or employment, participants have the opportunity to define a path that suits their interests and goals.

The program is delivered over a 9 week period, with a graduation in the final week where participants are recognised for their commitment to the program and the great changes they’ve made in their lives. Participants share a little about their journey with parents, Centre Management staff, yourtown staff and local QPS representatives before enjoying a morning tea together, which is generously provided by food retailers at Grand Plaza. This event is an opportunity for connection and celebration, where participants can reflect on positive changes, skills gained through the program and the friendships they’ve formed along the way.

In FY23 the program had a 100% success rate, with all 28 participants finding employment or returning to education.

Pictured above: Security Manager, Renee; Centre Manager, Martine; Josh, a YOUth Matters graduate who secured a school based plumbing apprenticeship; Mario, the owner of Piperite Plumping (one of the centre’s preferred plumbers) who employed Josh.

If you’d like to know more, feel free to phone Centre Management on 07 3800 7700.