Young Wyndham residents Jumess and Alexander will have their story shared on ABC radio and television next week.
The pair have been named the Wyndham region representatives for Takeover Melbourne, an ABC storytelling competition for young Victorians aged 12 to 18 years.
Jumess, a Truganina resident, wrote a story about her experience of overcoming internalised racism to inspire fellow African-Australians to love their culture.
“Sharing my story means so much to me,” Jumess said.
“I hope to achieve an understanding from a different perspective to my audience.
“I hope to achieve unity and acceptance. And I hope to be the voice for the voiceless.”
Alexander, from Werribee, wrote about campaigning for changes in LGBT rights after overcoming mental health struggles.
“Being able to share my story publicly means I’m able to further the work that I’m doing as a public speaker by continuing to develop my platform and hopefully get exposure in industries I would otherwise be unable to reach,” Alexander said.
Wyndham mayor Adele Hegedich said that Alexander and Jumess’ stories demonstrated the strength and talent of the municipality’s youth.
“Wyndham has an amazing community of young people who are using their voice to bring awareness to the issues they’re facing,” Cr Hegedich said.
Details: www.abc.net.au/radio/melbourne/programs/takeover-melbourne/
