Prime Minister, healthcare workers, forestry workers, performing artists and cultural leaders are just a few of the roles Eden's youth aspire to be in- in a few years' time.
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"We want opportunity. We don't just want to dream, we want to make it happen," was the message a group of youth told the Eden Magnet at Campbell Page ahead of an exciting youth festival showcasing 'opportunity' set to be held in Eden next week.
Key organiser William Sharples said after meeting with youth from rural and regional areas at last year's Heywire summit he was inspired to see a youth festival happen in Eden.
"When asked what is lacking in rural areas the most common answer was opportunity. The whole idea behind the festival is to showcase what youth have to offer as well as gain access to a range of services that provide opportunities," Mr Sharples said.
"We want to bring people to our town so they can see what we can do as well as inspire others to dream big and know that anything is possible."
Up and coming songstress Nikea Hayes will be performing on stage and although she is quite humble when talking about her powerful voice she said she won't let living in a remote area get in the way of achieving her dreams.
"Look at Jessica Mauboy, she came from a remote town and she got there. I look forward to people hearing me sing."
Cultural dance leader Shaq has been working alongside Gabriela Green Olea from Fling Physical Theatre to create a jointly choreographed dance especially for the event.
Six weeks in the making, the dance is a fusion of hip hop and cultural dance.
"I am proud to share my culture with people who might not normally have the opportunity to hear our stories and ways of life," Shaq said.
The Eden Community Access Centre was fundamental in applying for the FRRR ABC Heywire Youth Innovation grant to make the festival happen.
However, she said the local youth have been at the forefront of the festival's organisation right from the start.
"This is a festival run by youth for youth," said centre manager Carina Severs.
"We applied for the grant, Campbell Page also jumped on board and have been key facilitators supporting the the kids in organising the festival."
Dancing, boxing, archery and drumming are just a few of the workshops that will be on offer on the day. Vocational and educational services from TAFE and University of Wollongong will also be present along with youth support services such as Teen Clinic, Headspace, Campbell Page, PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Club), Cetana, Ability links and Youth Frontiers.
The festival will be held on Thursday, April 11 at the Barclay Street Soccer Field from 10am until 2pm.
