FROM radio shows to drag shows — it’s been a good year for Kulcha Shift.
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And they’re not the only ones to have noticed. The group claimed a top prize this week — the recognising excellence awards for delivering youth services (READYS).
Kulcha Shift works to help “at risk” groups by drawing them into a mainstream and non-stigmatised environment.
“There’s an edge to it. These are young people who might not be on you SRC committee,” Brophy community development and enterprise projects team leader Lyn Eales said.
“We love it when young people come in and say ‘we want to organise a skate competition, can you help us?’”
Kulcha Shift and its sub-group, Yumcha, have worked heavily in same-sex advocacy, including The Safe and Welcome Place project which saw businesses declare their premises safe for young gay people. There have also been workshops and presentations to schools.
Other events include the FReeZAs, festivals and community campaigns. “It’s not often young people are given responsibility for a project,” Ms Eales said. “It’s giving people a stepping stone and letting them know there’s a ‘next’.”
The award isn’t just paper — it’s come with a $1000 prize.
“Hopefully they’ll decide to do something great with it at the end,” she said.