QUT and Volunteering Queensland held a special project development day as part of the Changemaker Program.

The Changemaker Program is a unique collaboration which supports 10 students over 12 months to take an innovative idea with a social justice impact and make it happen. The projects range from youth mentoring, to development of a wellness database for seriously ill patients, to social activist projects. Today the Changemakers looked at overcoming barriers and detailing final action plans to move toward putting their innovative projects and programs into action.

At this event Volunteering Queensland launched a thoughtful new publication:

Channeling Enthusiasm into Sustained Action: Fostering the Changemakers Journey

Youth-led organisations have changed volunteering as young people no longer think of themselves as volunteers but as changemakers, social pioneers and most of all leaders. This research identifies the core factors on how to foster the changemakers journey. Key themes that motivate and engage young people were identified: culture, care, and growth. Activities and ideas are provided to inspire leaders to improve their leadership of their teams.