2025 Maningrida Youth Summit – Our Voice. Our Story. Our Future

The 2025 Maningrida Youth Summit was held from 12–15 August, bringing together young people from Maningrida and the homelands for a week of workshops, discussions, and activities focused on leadership, culture, and community. 
The stakeholders involved in the Summit were Nja-marléya Cultural Leaders and Justice Group, NIAA, Mala'la Health, Maningrida College, Bawinanga Homelands Aboriginal Corporation.
West Arnhem Regional Council (WARC) supported the event by providing marquees, gas, and ice, and by hosting evening basketball games led by Youth and Recreation Team Leader Edward. These games gave youth a chance to connect, have fun, and stay active as part of the Summit’s program.
The Youth Summit was held to give young people from Maningrida and the homelands a platform to share their ideas, celebrate their culture, and build leadership skills. 
A key highlight was the opportunity for youth to share their dreams and vision directly with the elders in the community, creating a meaningful dialogue between generations. 
This exchange not only inspired the young participants but also strengthened community connections, fostered pride in their heritage, and encouraged the youth to take an active role in shaping their own future. Overall, the Summit promoted wellbeing, empowerment, and a sense of belonging for all participants.
West Arnhem Regional Council’s Youth, Sport, and Recreation team proudly hosted the evening basketball games during the Summit, which drew a huge crowd of enthusiastic participants and community members. It was a highlight of the evenings, providing fun, connection, and a chance for youth to showcase their skills. I was incredibly proud of our team, who were always ready to stand by and support wherever needed.
At the same time, the event would not have been possible without the outstanding leadership and coordination of the organisers, Njamarleya, and their directors, who did an amazing job hosting the Summit and guiding the program. 
Their dedication ensured the event ran smoothly and created a welcoming space for young people to learn, share, and be inspired.
Wellbeing Services Coordinator – Maningrida and Jabiru, Hans Wesche said, “This was my first Youth Summit, and although we played a supporting role, I was so inspired by the energy and creativity of the young people. 
"Watching them connect with the elders and share their dreams was a real highlight. I also had so many ideas running through my mind about how WARC could lead future Summits if given the opportunity, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities for our youth and community."