Open Family Australia recently ran a five-month youth leadership program.

It aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of young people in relation to community matters.

They developed skills in communication, public speaking, conflict resolution, peer support, responsibility, trust, decision-making and gained self-confidence. They also acquired an understanding on how to get their foot in the door.

They had the opportunity to participate in placement at their chosen workplace and learnt the different paths they can take to reach their goals.

The project was designed to empower young people in Warwick Farm where the unemployment rate is high.

Local organisations including Liverpool TAFE, Liverpool Hospital Mental Health, and Open Family Australia supported the students in a mentor capacity. They provided practical examples and activities to complete.

Choekvirak Chan is one of the five students who recently graduated from the program.

The 17-year-old Miller Technology High School student hopes to one day open his own business as an electrician.

He plans to study at TAFE and then complete a university engineering degree to realise his dream.

Choekvirak, known to his friends as Chan, said he thought it would be tough to get a job after finishing school but after graduating from the project he now feels more

confident.

"The program has helped me a lot and has given me a lot of information about the

workplace," he said. "I have improved my writing skills and made a lot of new friends."

The program is due to start again in January.

Open Family is now running leisure activities every Tuesday and Thursday from 3pm to 6pm and offers sporting activities, food, games and music every Friday from 5pm to 8pm.

Students living in the Warwick Farm district aged between 12 to 25 are all welcome.

Details: Visit the Open Family office at Warwick Farm Neighbourhood Centre, 11 Gallop Street, Warwick Farm, or phone 0420 278 294.