Last week, we celebrated National Youth Volunteer Week, recognising the incredible contribution young volunteers make to our communities every day. Their passion, dedication, and willingness to give their time help create positive change and strengthen connections across our region.

Here's what one of our volunteers Connor Findlay had to say about their volunteering experience and the impact it has had on them.

Hi! My name is Connor, and I am a writer and the Editor-in-Chief of Ambedo Magazine, run by YO Bendigo. 

Seeing artwork, writing, photography and interviews made by young people around Greater Bendigo is always encouraging. Our magazine showcases all of Bendigo's creative talent through arts, photography and writing, which drives me to better improve my writing skills, and also encourage the magazine even more.

To me, volunteering means helping others, and also inspiring them to do so. The magazine has been running for almost 10 years now, and we have seen so many amazing volunteers over this time who want to share their passions. I got the chance to meet them, as well as interview subjects and people/organisations we've collaborated with.

Volunteering has given me so much. I am more concise with my writing and presentation, I'm not afraid to share ideas, thoughts and opinions through the magazine meetings. When I stepped up as an Editor in 2021, I was able to gain experience being a leader and also guide others who were like me when I first started. Rather than control the group, I give ideas for others to use for their articles and share feedback to individuals who hope to improve.

I think volunteering is important for young people, as it sets them up for so much in the future. Just an hour a week, maybe even more or less, allows you to interact and socialise with others who can help you out so much more, and in turn, you help each other as well. YO Bendigo offers so many opportunities for employment, creative expression, fun activities and more. There's a wide range of volunteer options as well, but I think Ambedo Magazine is a unique one.

If you, or someone you know, is a creative person, who wants to work on writing, photography, artwork or interviews, please attend one of our meetings! Level 2 of 41 Mundy Street. Or, you can submit your work to [email protected]! For written articles, limit 500 words for a one-page article or 1000 words for two-pages. If you wish to write more, we're always looking for blog content, found at https://www.yobendigo.com.au/yo-media/ambedo-blog