The trial of a music-based youth program dubbed The Indie Project has been deemed so successful its creators are looking to expand it state-wide.
Delivered by community service organisation Social Futures, The Indie Project aims to build the independence of high school students living with neurodivergence, chronic illness, disability, or those just “needing some extra support with their wellbeing and connection to others”.
Team leader Dom Shelley, a drummer with more than 35-years of experience in the music scene, said the program was designed with the help of local youth, including those with disabilities and neurodivergence.
“The feedback from young people was clear: they wanted something creative and innovative that felt different from school,” he said.
“In response to that, we developed a music exercise that incorporates other creative activities throughout the program.”
The project was first trialled at Loganlea State High School, with students writing and recording their own songs.
“This isn’t just about writing a song, it’s about telling your truth, being heard, and connecting with peers,” Mr Shelley said.
One participant, a 16-year-old named Nick, said he would recommend the program to other young people because it would help them to “express themselves in their own unique way”.
“Doing stuff together made us a better team, and it helped us learn that not everybody has to show their true self when they don’t need to – that they can do it at their own pace,” Nick said.
Based on the “success” at Loganlea, Social Futures has already expanded the program to Elanora high school on the Gold Coast.
“Benefits for young people include increased resilience and coping, improved ability to develop their own independence, and a greater awareness of their own personal journeys as we have conversations around emotions and relationships,” Mr Shelley said.
One of the project’s mentors, Jay, said he had lived most of his life “overwhelmed and overstimulated” as a person with Autism.
“The Indie Project is a unique opportunity to give young people a chance to connect and bond with mentors who can guide and prepare them for real life, with full understanding of how they might be feeling and without judgment,” he said.
The Indie Project is funded by the Australian government.
socialfutures.org.au/the-indie-project.
