Dreaming Out Loud

Our Future In Focus

The 2025 African Australian Student Conference - Western Region, proudly presented by Safe Space Media on behalf of the Department of Education as part of the VACAP Initiative’s focus area of Education and Training. The inspiring theme for this year was "Dreaming Out Loud - Our Future in Focus". The conference was specifically designed as a pivotal one-day event for over 200 Year 7-10 African Australian high school students from 25 schools across the Western Metro region, providing a dynamic platform for early empowerment, skill development, peer connection, and the collective exploration of future possibilities. By fostering an environment that encourages aspirational thinking and strategic goal setting, we sought to equip students with the tools and mindset to not only envision but actively shape their desired futures from an early age.

The Conference included interactive workshops, inspiring speakers of African Australian background working in diverse industries and the opportunity for students to explore career pathways with mentors from across a broad range of sectors including Business, Creative Arts, STEM industries and Trades. Participants also had the chance to network with their peers and made meaningful connections with other young motivated African Australians.

This conference design was informed by a deep understanding of the unique journeys within the African Australian community. It acknowledged the challenges and validated the aspirations of young African Australians navigating educational, cultural and social expectations.

The conference was a safe space for our young people to exist and daydream about what is possible for their future and giving them the keys to unlock their own potential! This year's theme was loud and audacious as we want our young people to dream BIG and make their dreams a reality! Many thanks to all our volunteers, supporters and community orgs that came through for the young people. Your presence validated their existence and built up their confidence to be themselves unashamedly! Eternal gratitude to the following;