ABC Heywire calls for 2019 Trailblazers
Applications are now open for the ABC Heywire’s Trailblazers program, which showcases the stories of regional Australia’s brightest new leaders.
Trailblazers is an opportunity for people, aged 18 – 28, who are implementing positive change in their region, to have their work celebrated nationally.
Successful applicants will have their story told on the ABC and also attend a Trailblazer Lab in Canberra next February.
The five-day lab aims to empower young, regional leaders and to give them an opportunity to share their stories and build their leadership capacity.
Former Trailblazer, Joe Collins, from Woomelang Victoria, applied for the program with a project to help his small town get back on the map.
Joe is behind “Endangered Species of the Mallee” – a series of large-scale murals showcasing the local areas endangered species, while also helping the town become part of the famous Silo art trail.
Joe says Trailblazers gave him the opportunity to make valuable connections and decide what the next steps were for his project.
“It’s a real game changer and I would highly recommend it to everyone,” he says. “The workshops we did with the ABC and the people we met, was an experience I’ll be forever grateful for.”
The ABC and the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and Cities partner on Trailblazers, coming together to support and champion regional young people.
Acting Director of Regional & Local, Judith Whelan said the Trailblazers program celebrated young people who were making a difference in their communities.
"We want to tell the stories of Australia's future leaders,” she said. “These are the people who will be shaping the nation’s conversations in years to come."
Who can apply to be a Trailblazer?
Individuals and groups of up to three, aged 18-28, who are initiating projects that create positive change in their communities. From young community leaders to social entrepreneurs, advocates to event organisers, we’re looking for young people with a commitment to making regional Australia even better.
What do Trailblazers receive?
A trip to the Trailblazers Lab in Canberra in February 2020
Their story told on AB platforms
Extensive networking, mentoring and leadership opportunities
Applications close Friday 5 July, 2019.