A youth centre to keep teenagers off the streets and engaged in productive activities has officially opened at Logan Central.
The $5.04 million facility will provide people aged 12-24 the opportunity to attend workshops in music production, barista training, barbering, apparel creation, cultural dance, urban art and leadership development.
The Wilbur Street Youth Centre will be operated by Rekon Youth Foundation, a local youth and family support organisation that also runs programs for people aged 12-17 at Yarrabilba and other locations.
Located next to the Logan Central library, the centre features a ‘hang-out’ zone, indoor multi-purpose court, quiet room, rehearsal studio, dedicated First Nations space, multi-purpose area, creative maker space, technology space, commercial kitchen, laundry and amenities.
Rekon Youth Foundation director Rolando Pisia said the opportunity to run the centre aligned perfectly with the organisation’s heart and mission.
“Through a focus on upskilling and providing pathways to employment and education we want to empower young people and provide a safe space for them to discover their potential, build meaningful connections and create brighter futures while giving them a chance to explore their passions and talents,” Mr Pisia said.
“Sports programs will promote teamwork and healthy lifestyles while building resilience, character and lifelong friendships.
“There will also be a focus on cultural education and collaboration, celebrating diversity and fostering understanding among youth from all backgrounds.
“This will be a space where young people feel seen, valued and supported to thrive in every area of their lives and where hope is reignited, dreams are sparked and lives are transformed.”
Mayor Jon Raven said the youth centre had been welcomed by both the community and the young people who would be frequenting it.
“Young people make up 30 per cent of our city’s population, but they are 100 per cent our future, so it’s important to create spaces for them to thrive and grow,” Cr Raven said.
“They’ve long been keen to have somewhere they could socialise and connect and this centre is now delivering that vision.”
The centre is co-funded by all three levels of government.
Federal treasurer and Rankin MP Jim Chalmers said the centre was a space for young people in the community to come together, connect and feel comfortable.
“Having grown up in our community and lived here all my life, I know the importance of having places for young people to enjoy,” Mr Chalmers said.
“As your local member of parliament and as the nation’s treasurer, I’m proud to be part of a government that’s delivering important projects like this one in our local area.
“The Wilbur Street Youth Centre is a prime example of the fantastic things we can achieve for our community when all levels of government work together.”
