New initiative in Wagga to help youth with disability realise their leadership potential

Regional Disability Advocacy Service is launching a new program for young people next month. Photo: .shock.

A new and free initiative designed to empower young people with disability to take on leadership roles is about to be launched in Wagga.

Regional Disability Advocacy Service (RDAS) is ready to roll out its Young Leaders Program next month. RDAS is a non-government, not-for-profit, registered charity that assists people with disability, including family members and carers living in Southern NSW and North East Victoria.

The program will support up to 12 locals aged 16-25 in realising their leadership aspirations.

The program will be of no cost to the participants, who are required to attend the fortnightly sessions from September to March 2025.

RDAS executive officer Ben Foley said young people with disability living in regional Australia were underrepresented in positions of leadership in society.

“This is despite around 5.5 million Australians, or one in five, having a disability,” Mr Foley said.

“Our program helps improve this disparity by giving young people with disability in Wagga a chance to develop their skills, connect with like-minded peers, and hear from current community leaders already advocating for change.”

CYDA CEO Skye Kakoschke-Moore said young people with disability from Wagga would be equipped with the tools and confidence to become the voices of tomorrow.

“This program is not just about teaching leadership skills but supporting young people with disability in Wagga Wagga to envision and create the future they want to see,” said Ms Kakoschke-Moore.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with RDAS on this.”

RDAS, the national peak body Children and Young People with Disability Australia (CYDA), young people with disability from Wagga, and local agency representatives co-designed the program.

RDAS is taking registrations for the program until Friday 16 August. For more information, contact RDAS on 1800 250 292.

To find out more about the initiative, visit Regional Disability Advocacy Service.