Strength, culture and leadership: Solid Voices Youth Council completes final 2025 engagement week
The QATSICPP Solid Voices Youth Council recently gathered on Turrbal and Yugambeh Country for their final engagement week of 2025. Young leaders from across Queensland came together to reconnect, grow their leadership and strengthen their shared voice across child protection and youth justice.
The week began on Minjerribah with a Welcome to Country and Goompi Trail tour led by Quandamooka Traditional Owner, Matt Burns. His stories and cultural knowledge provided a powerful grounding for the week. Council members later gathered in traditional men’s and women’s groups to yarn and prepare dinner together.
Council members then visited QATSICPP’s head office, which was a first for several members. Aunty Deborah Sandy welcomed the group with a warm and empowering Welcome to Country before they met with QATSICPP’s Executive Leadership Team including CEO Phillip Brooks, Deputy CEOs Madeline Lea and Helena Wright, and Executive Director of the Centre of Excellence, Stacey Giles. These conversations offered valuable insight into leadership, sector priorities and the growing influence of youth voice across the state.
Council member Danzel Lewis said it was a privilege to be part of these important conversations.
“It has been a privilege this year to be a part of the inaugural council and learn about the work of QATSICPP, connect with leaders within the sector, and join some of the big conversations that are happening within this space,” he said.
Throughout the week, council members also progressed their contribution to the Commission of Inquiry into Queensland’s Child Safety system. Guided by Manager of Policy and Strategy, Lucas Moore, they refined key messages grounded in lived experience and community perspectives. Their work highlights the importance of young people speaking to the issues that directly affect them and their communities.
The engagement week concluded with a Torres Strait Islander feast with CEO Phillip Brooks and a cultural weaving session at Redlands IndigiScapes Centre with artist and practitioner Salma Bowie.
Surrounded by culture and Country, council members reflected on their growth, identity and the role they continue to play in strengthening systems for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, young people and families.
QATSICPP acknowledges the leadership, commitment and cultural strength of the Solid Voices Youth Council. Their voices continue to guide our work and ensure young people remain central to building better outcomes for families and communities across Queensland.
