22 September 2025
The first-ever Regional Student Voice Conference (RSVC) we hosted last week showed the power of giving young people space to speak, connect, and lead.
Over 130 students from 9 schools across Geelong gathered for a day focused on student voice. Students from Year 7 to Year 12 shared ideas, listened, and tackled real issues in their lives. The mix of ages and backgrounds made the conversations and solutions even stronger.
The day started with inspiration from Paralympic gold medallist Kelly Cartwright OAM. Her story set the tone for courage and authenticity. Geelong Junior Mayor Ayush Singh encouraged students to step into leadership, including the 2026 Youth Greater Geelong City Council.
In the afternoon, students worked in small groups on eleven key challenges facing young people. They problem-solved, collaborated, and pitched their ideas to the whole group. Their voices reached not just their peers, but also leaders like Christine Couzens MP, Libby Coker MP, and Jayde Heywood, who gave feedback.
This event was a platform for Geelong and Australia’s future leaders to show what matters and how they plan to make change. Their bravery, empathy, and drive were clear. The future is in good hands.
Thank you to the students who made this day possible. Your voice matters. This is just the beginning.
The event would not have happened without the vision of Tony Zerafa from Oberon High School and the commitment from his organising committee. Thank you for all the work you put into making it such an incredible day.
