On Monday, September 16th, the Youthrive Victoria Alumni launched its inaugural Alumni-focused newsletter, reaching over 600 alumni members. This quarterly publication will showcase upcoming events and opportunities, share nostalgic photos and stories from the archives, and feature contributions from our talented alumni. If you’d like to contribute, we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to alumnipresident@youthrivevic.org.au.

Development Events

Over September and October, Youthrive Victoria Alumni hosted two exciting skills-building workshops, tackling topics relevant to young people.
For the September workshop, Programs Manager Charlie Bracey led a super interactive workshop centred on mental health. With exams just around the corner, Charlie’s session was a perfect reminder to prioritise self-care.

“We explored the significance of understanding our limits and strategies to manage them effectively. Don’t miss any future opportunities to attend Charlie’s talks!”

Charlie’s workshop explored how to handle stress, especially by breaking down what is within our control and what isn’t. The practical tips were spot-on for navigating big decisions, making it easier to manage the pressures we all face.

Dirk Strickland, an Alumni Committee member, delivered an engaging session on assertive communication—an essential skill for personal and professional life. Participants reflected on moments where assertiveness could have been improved and got to try out
real-life scenarios.

“Dirk’s assertive communication workshop equipped everyone with the confidence and skills to initiate these discussions and stand up for ourselves, especially in the workplace. The practical strategies shared will make a significant difference in our professional interactions.”

The second workshop, held in October, looked at financial literacy and job interview skills. Dirk’s session was all about job interview skills. A visualisation exercise helped everyone picture their dream interview scenario, followed by role-playing different interview questions.

“The job interview skills workshop was fantastic, equipping young people with essential techniques to make a great first impression. It also provided valuable strategies for handling tricky questions and staying calm under pressure. I’m feeling much more confident and
ready for my next interview!”

Youthrive CEO Andrew McGuckian rounded out the October workshop with a session on financial literacy. He kept it real with actionable strategies for managing finances, beyond just budgeting.

“I appreciated the thorough answers to questions, gaining valuable insights that we can implement immediately.”

The session focused on actionable tips and tricks, equipping everyone with the tools to improve their financial futures effectively.

These workshops are just the beginning, and we’re excited for what’s next!

Alumni Christmas Party

Initial reports suggest that this Christmas is set to be the best one all year, but who can wait until December?

Not you? Well, fear not!

The Youthrive Victoria Alumni Christmas Party is happening on the 15th of November. With levels of cheer set to rival even the day itself, you ought to ask yourself, ‘What on earth am I doing on the 15th of November at 6 pm that is so important that it would cause me to miss the Youthrive Victoria Alumni Christmas Party?’

You’ll find it isn’t even a question worth asking.

So make sure to round up your friends and jingle all the way down Swanston Street to the Queensberry Hotel. You’ll find sack-loads of food, drink, and fun to last all night.

BUT you don’t have to wait til the 15th to start getting excited, get in the mood by starting the hunt for your costume now! We want to see your best: OP SHOP ELF!!!

Prizes are available for outstanding performances.

Check out the Alumni Facebook Group to register your interest! https://fb.me/e/4RMUyYq7G

See you there!