Students from North Geelong Secondary College shared their ideas with Minister for Youth, Hon Natalie Suleyman, and Member for Lara, Ella George, through our Settle Well program—showcasing the power of youth leadership and advocacy.
As part of CatholicCare Victoria’s Settle Well Leadership and Advocacy program, students from North Geelong Secondary College had the unique opportunity to meet with the Minister for Youth, the Hon. Natalie Suleyman, and State Member for Lara, Ella George, to share their ideas, concerns, and hopes for the future.
The session, held in a relaxed and engaging format, gave students the chance to present their advocacy priorities—ranging from racism and cultural respect, to climate change and its psychological impact, and the need for greater support for students from non-English speaking backgrounds. The Minister responded with warmth and encouragement, even sharing her own migrant journey, creating a moment of genuine connection with the young participants.
“As someone from a migrant background myself, I know how powerful it is when young people are given the opportunity to share their experiences and ideas. The Settle Well program is building the confidence and leadership skills of refugee and asylum seeker youth, and today’s conversations showed just how much they have to contribute,” said Hon Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Youth.
Local Member for Lara, Ella George MP, praised the students and highlighted the importance of the event.
“This meeting was an important platform to highlight the young leaders of our community, amplifying their voices and fostering their engagement with the Minister.”
“The students should be extremely proud of their presentations, which encouraged meaningful dialogue around pressing social issues and empowered them to advocate for themselves and their communities.”
In addition to their presentations, students had the opportunity to engage in a thoughtful Q&A session with Minister Suleyman. Their questions reflected both curiosity and a growing sense of civic responsibility, including:
The Minister responded with honesty and encouragement, reinforcing the importance of youth voices in shaping public policy and community wellbeing.
This event is part of the broader Settle Well initiative, which empowers refugee and asylum seeker youth to overcome barriers and become confident advocates for their communities. The program is delivered in partnership with schools North Geelong Secondary College and Northern Bay College, offering wraparound support that includes education, mentoring, and leadership development.
CatholicCare Victoria CEO Agnes Sheehan praised the students for their courage and clarity:
The event was also attended by school leadership and CatholicCare Victoria staff, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in nurturing the next generation of changemakers.
Programs like Settle Well are vital in our communities—they not only support young people to overcome barriers, but also empower them to shape the future with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of belonging.
To learn more about the Settle Well program and how it’s making a difference in the lives of young people click here.
