THRIVE Program: Empowering First Nations Young People in Rockhampton
Are you a young Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person living in the Rockhampton region? The Together Helping Resilient Indigenous Voices Emerge (THRIVE) program is here to help you unlock your potential, grow your leadership skills, and make a lasting impact in your community.
Whether you’re a parent, carer, or simply a young person ready to lead, THRIVE is your opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive.
What is THRIVE?
THRIVE is more than just a program—it’s a movement to celebrate and empower young First Nations people. Whether you’re already a leader or just starting your journey, THRIVE will help you strengthen your skills and inspire others in your community.
Designed in collaboration with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, community members, and youth organisations, THRIVE is tailored to meet your needs and aspirations.
Through culturally responsive workshops, mentorship, and connections to support networks, THRIVE will help you:
- strengthen your leadership skills
- build resilience and confidence
- create positive change for yourself, your family, and your community.
Program details
When: 22–26 September 2025
Where: Rockhampton
Time: Daily sessions from 9.00am – 4.30pm
You’ll need to attend all 5 days, as each session builds on the last to grow your leadership capabilities.
Who can apply
The THRIVE program is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people who:
- live in the Rockhampton region (including Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Gracemere, Mount Morgan, Woorabinda, and the areas in between)
- will be 16–25 years of age by 22 September 2025.
How to apply
Applications for THRIVE are open now and will close 5pm, Sunday 17 August 2025.
To apply, you’ll need to answer a few questions about your leadership potential and community impact. These responses will help us select participants for the program, as places are limited.
The outcome of your application will be shared with you by Friday 29 August 2025.
Got kids?
We’re exploring childcare options to help you focus on learning while your children are cared for in a safe and engaging environment. Let us know your childcare needs when you apply, and we’ll see what support we can provide. Childcare is subject to availability and conditions.
What to expect
- culturally responsive workshops to grow your leadership skills and confidence
- mentorship and guidance from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, community leaders, and youth advocates
- connections to support networks in health, education, employment, and community services
- opportunities for personal and professional growth to help you thrive.
What you’ll gain
This is your chance to step into your power, connect with your culture, and make a difference in your community. Whether you’re a parent, carer, or a young person ready to lead, THRIVE is here to support you every step of the way.
By participating in THRIVE, you’ll develop:
- stronger leadership skills to support your community and other young people
- connections with key stakeholders in employment, training, and support services
- post-program support and access to professional development grant opportunities
- a network of peers, mentors, and Elders to support your journey.
More information
If you need more information, get in touch with us at youth@housing.qld.gov.au. We will post any updates here on our website or you can follow us on Instagram or Facebook.