Supporting Fil-Aus youth with opportunities to grow, lead, serve and thrive

The aim of the project is to equip Filipino young people with information, experience and skills to make informed decisions about career pathways, as well as have an approachable platform to utilise their talents, existing skills and acquired skills to exercise these in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Our aim is to foster community-based learning, connection, engagement and skills development to build young people's confidence and experience as they become adults and enter the workforce.

The Try My Trade Workshops aims to provide young people with valuable insights into a diverse range of trades and professions, helping them make informed decisions about their

career pathways. By exploring various fields, participants will gain essential knowledge about different career options, enhancing their business development skills and fostering their professional growth. Most professionals are of Filipino heritage, inspiring youth through culture and lived experience.

The Youth in Action (YIA) Network is a youth‑led network of Filipino young people who want to stay connected to their community and make a positive impact. Facilitated by our Youth Engagement Coordinator, members share their ideas, support their peers, and use their skills and talents to encourage others. They bond over shared cultural identity, learn more about their heritage together, and work through challenges faced by Filipino youth, including mental health and cultural identity.

The network builds leadership and professional skills and gives young people real opportunities to practice them in community settings, supported by peers, AFCS mentors, and community elders.

Young people in the YIA Network take part in practical training, conferences and skill‑building opportunities that help them grow as confident leaders. They learn from Filipino professionals, elders and AFCS mentors, then put these skills into action by delivering sessions, supporting community activities and connecting with other youth and leaders. Participants gain real‑world experience through hands‑on activities such as learning to prepare Filipino traditional meals using a train‑the‑trainer model and teaching these skills to peers, as well as running weekly youth‑led cultural dance classes guided by community elders. Youth leaders plan performances, guide younger participants and take ownership of their sessions with support from AFCS staff. They also attend multicultural conferences, seminars and training events, expanding their networks and deepening their understanding of youth issues, cultural identity and community leadership.