Summer Holiday Youth Program

Introduction

The Summer/Autumn Youth Connection event, SAHB24-182, organized by the NSW Central West
Muslim Association in collaboration with the NSW Government’s Department of Regional Youth,
aimed to provide recreational opportunities for children and young people while fostering cultural
respect and leadership skills.

Event Overview

The event commenced on January 26, 2024, with an inaugural day at the Tenpin Bowling center.
Seventeen enthusiastic participants engaged in various activities including bowling, basketball, and
digital games. The day began with acknowledgments to the Aboriginal custodians followed by
introductions and team allocations for bowling. As the day progressed, the children overcame initial
hesitations, interacting and forming new friendships. The enthusiasm for the subsequent venue,
Dubbo Sports World, was palpable.

Day-1 Highlights

At Dubbo Sports World, participants enjoyed jumping castles, basketball, indoor cricket, and virtual
reality sports. Catering provided a brief respite, fostering a sense of community among attendees. An
art workshop further stimulated creativity and engagement. Feedback from the children was
overwhelmingly positive, noting the event’s inclusivity and diverse representation.

Day-2 Highlights

The second day commenced with Equine-Assisted Learning, offering a unique and enriching
experience for personal and social development. The remainder of the day saw a return to Tenpin
Bowling and Digital Games, with increased attendance and participation. Dubbo Sports World once
again provided a vibrant atmosphere, with the addition of a cricket tournament, introducing some
participants to the sport for the first time.

Day-3 Highlights

The final day mirrored the previous schedule, maintaining high levels of engagement and enjoyment.
Notably, the event concluded without any reported injuries or incidents, attributed to diligent
supervision and adherence to safety protocols. The presence of qualified first aiders and staff with
Working With Children checks ensured compliance and participant well-being throughout.

Inclusivity and Outreach

The event targeted all groups in the community, without regard to race, religion, sex, gender, or
political affiliation. Marketing efforts included distributing hard flyers and conducting a robust social
media campaign to ensure broad awareness and accessibility.

Outcomes

The event successfully encouraged children to disconnect from screens and engage in active,
communal experiences. Participants demonstrated increased socialization, respect for diversity, and
leadership potential. By prioritizing cultural respect and inclusivity, the NSW Central West Muslim
Association facilitated a memorable and educational event for all involved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Summer/Autumn Youth Connection event exemplified the power of community-
driven initiatives in nurturing the holistic development of children and young people. Through a
diverse range of activities and a supportive environment, participants not only had fun but also
acquired valuable life skills and cultural understanding. The event’s success underscores the
importance of fostering inclusivity and providing opportunities for positive social interactions among
youth.