Fourteen young people from Holroyd City graduated from an innovative project at a Mayoral ceremony in November. The Peer Education Project targets young people aged 15 to 19 and encourages them to contribute to the wellbeing of their communities. Participants undergo training, enabling them to educate their peers about issues relevant to young people, such as sexual health, mental health, drugs and alcohol, body image, rights and responsibilities, bullying and peer pressure.
Holroyd Mayor, Councillor Doctor John Brodie, helped present the graduation certificates. He said the project is a dynamic and innovative way of working with young people.
“The project helps young people become more knowledgeable about building leadership and developing mentoring skills,” he said. “It provides training in youth health issues, helps build confidence in young people and inspires them to take part and contribute to our community’s future.”
Mayor Brodie said peer education is an opportunity to challenge inaccurate information that is often gained from a peer environment and to give correct information.
“Peer educators have proven to be more effective educators to their peers, as barriers are broken and they can access a wide group of people through their networks,” he said.
The project began in 2004, with four year funding from the Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme. This is the second group of peer educators to be trained. A third group will be trained in the near future and a final report will be written when the project is complete.
Mayor Brodie said that although this second group have now graduated, they will continue to educate and help their peers in various ways.
“Some will continue to be part of the project and help develop and educate the new generation of peer educators,” he said. “Other graduates will make their mark by joining committees, helping in school activities and assisting locals.”
