2025 has been an incredible year of growth, learning, and impact for Spark. We’ve seen what’s possible when young people are trusted and backed to lead solutions to issues that affect them. In a world with growing isolation, discrimination, and systemic disadvantage where young people are too often stereotyped, ignored, or punished instead of met with care and community – spaces like Spark are needed more than ever.

I am deeply grateful to every young person who has been involved in shaping Spark, and to our community partners, supporters, donors, and networks who believed in our vision and backed us in 2025. Together, we’ve built a safe, inclusive, youth-led community where 13–18 year olds can connect, build skills, and support each other to spark change.

From our initial co-design workshops in October 2024 to our south west Sydney launch and youth-led workshops, young people have consistently reported feeling seen, heard, and able to show up as their authentic selves. Culturally safe, identity-affirming, and inclusive spaces have increased confidence, connection, and impact. Genuine co-design by and for young people is at the heart of everything we do, handing real decision-making power to young people to shape strategy, programs, and workshops. Through this leadership, young people have grown skills in communication, facilitation, problem-solving, and confidence.

Our biggest impact hasn’t been in the number of workshops or participants, but in building spaces for belonging, deep relationships and identity affirmation, and authentic youth-leadership. By combining creative expression, culturally safe spaces, and both place-based and national opportunities, we are building a new model for youth-led change.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey so far – your support, trust, and belief in young people made it possible.

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