Celebrating Youth Week 2025: Empowering Young People for the Future

Youth Week 2025 in New South Wales wasn't just a celebration, it was a powerful reminder of the resilience, potential, and promise of young people across our communities. With the inspiring theme, "I Am, We Are the Future, and the Future is Now" Anglicare proudly joined the statewide celebrations by hosting two pop-up shops in Liverpool and Parramatta.

These pop-up events weren't just about handing out clothes, they were about building confidence, offering support, and creating a space where young people could feel seen, valued, and prepared for their next steps in life.

Our Anglicare Liverpool and Parramatta Anglicare offices were transformed into welcoming areas filled with racks of workwear, tables of personal protective equipment (PPE), and tote bags ready to be filled. The items were free to take home, giving young people a practical boost as they prepared to enter or re-enter the workforce.

The initiative was made possible thanks to generous donations from Thread Together which is a charity that redistributes unsold new clothing to people in need, and from Anglicare's own Op Shops and through purchased items our staff members arranged to suit the attending clientele.

But the experience went far beyond fashion. Anglicare Youth Workers and Case Managers were on-site at both events, offering styling advice, mock interview coaching, and plenty of friendly conversation. With sausage sizzles, snacks, and cups of tea, the events had a warm, relaxed feel that made it easy for young people to connect and engage.

Ani Stepanovska, a Youth Services Project Worker at Anglicare, helped coordinate the events and saw firsthand the impact they had.

"Events like this are really important for our youth," Ani said.

"They're about confidence-about being seen and supported. We're here to remove barriers and help young people feel ready to take their next steps."

Whether it was answering questions, helping choose an outfit, or simply being available for a chat, the Anglicare team made it clear that no one had to walk the journey alone.

Each location had its own flair. In Liverpool, the courtyard buzzed with activity as clients browsed through clothing under the open sky. In Parramatta, an indoor room was transformed into a youth-friendly hub complete with games, upbeat music videos, and a sense of community.

Above: Hosting a barbeque at the Liverpool pop-up event

Young people left with more than just clothing, they walked away with a renewed sense of self-belief. Kmart vouchers were also handed out, allowing participants to pick up additional items they needed.

"Some of the young people we meet haven't had much experience with formal interviews," Ani explained.

"Being able to offer guidance, give tips, and boost their confidence is really rewarding."

Supporting Young People Beyond Youth Week

The events were part of a broader mission led by Anglicare's Reconnect program, which offers free and confidential support to young people aged 12–18 who may be at risk of homelessness due to family conflict or breakdown. Through early intervention, counselling, and practical support, Reconnect helps young people stay connected-to their families, education, and communities.

Kate Wolf, Team Leader for Reconnect, summed it up beautifully:

"Events like this are about more than clothes. These kinds of programs make a real difference, not just today, but in building a stronger, more resilient future generation."

Need Support? We're Here to Help

Anglicare's Reconnect services are available in Fairfield, Liverpool, Blacktown, Parramatta, Bankstown, and parts of Cumberland LGA. Whether you're a young person needing a hand, or a parent looking for support, our team is here to listen, help, and walk alongside you.