Dunedin Youth Council begins recruiting for new members

Passionate about making Ōtepoti better for rangatahi? Want to amplify youth voices, advocate for your peers, develop your skills and meet new people?

The Dunedin Youth Council (DYC) helps lead positive change in Dunedin, and is now looking for applications from rakatahi aged 12-18, living, working, and/or studying in or around Ōtepoti to join the team.

DYC Chair Shiva Kasibhatia says it is an incredible opportunity.

“I've met countless awesome people, had the chance to attend national events, got to serve in cool positions such as Social Media Lead and Chairperson, and, most importantly, was able to have a seat at the table and create meaningful change for young people here in Ōtepoti.”

DYC has been involved in a range of projects across Ōtepoti.
In 2024, it hosted the Soundwave Youth Festival, bringing students together from across the city. The event featured 16 bands and 65 performers, and a night of good music, good food, and good vibes. During 2024, the DYC also worked with the Otago Regional Council on a youth-focused bus safety campaign.

Last year, DYC hosted the Ōtepoti Youth Market, involving 30 stalls run by young people and selling everything from art and clothes to food and drink. The Market included games, a busking setup, and a free BBQ.

This year the group held a Popup Youth Hub over three days and which attracted more than 150 young people.

Shiva says feedback from the event showed strong demand for a permanent youth space in Ōtepoti, with the young people saying they would use one for socialising, studying, events, music and more.

“The DYC has continued to advocate for third spaces for young people in Ōtepoti, and are committed to carrying this kaupapa forward for years to come.”

The DYC is supported by the Dunedin City Council

Recruitment for the 2027 DYC is now open and young people who want the opportunity to create meaningful change for rakatahi are encouraged to apply.  Applications close 10:00PM, Sunday, 18th October.

QUESTIONS? DM the team @dunedinyouthcouncil on Instagram on Facebook, or email jay.phillips@dcc.govt.nz

APPLY HERE: https://forms.gle/FHN7ZZmTY83a6wsp9

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