Jeremy has been a dedicated youth worker at Woden Youth Centre for over a decade, and in the sector for sixteen years. He consistently has a positive influence on the lives of the young people he engages with. His profound expertise, empathy, and outstanding contributions define him as an exemplary figure in youth work.
Jeremy consistently prioritises offering support to young people in need. He will work tirelessly to find a way around every barrier with young people, who respond very well to this above and beyond support. Previous service users often drop in to visit the youth centre specifically to say hello to Jeremy and let him know where they have been and what they are up to, quite often thanking him for the support he offered in gaining a house, employment or further education. Young people also drop in asking for Jeremy and no matter how busy he is, he makes time to have a chat and discuss supports that may be needed.
Over the last ten years Jeremy has contributed significantly to the experiences of support and connection that young people have through the Woden Youth Centre. He was instrumental in large events such as the Lift Off music event, Woden Town Square talent Quest. He has developed music programs that have given young people the opportunity to express themselves creatively, build confidence, and even move into music and arts careers.
A young person who supported Jeremy’s nomination for this award said “Jez helped me overcome a lot of personal challenges, assisted me to get work experience, build relationships, meet new people and gain self confidence. He has helped me get employment as a young person. I have seen the impact he has made on many lives over the years, and he definitely deserves to be recognised for all his work.”
Jeremy is always looking for opportunities to learn and develop his skills, attending training and sharing ideas with other youth workers. He is committed to the development of the youth sector, and the professional development of other youth workers. Throughout his career, Jeremy has mentored many student or early career youth workers. He role models how to build positive, healthy, professional relationships – maintaining boundaries while also showing young people that they can trust him. He contributes regularly to youth sector forums including the Youth Worker Practice Network and the ACT Multicultural Youth Affairs Network. He has co-presented with other youth workers on youth engagement skills, and is Joint Case Review facilitator.
Jeremy has been nominated for several YOGIE awards over the last ten years, and every nomination form speaks to his commitment to young people, his willingness to go out of his way to make young people feel safe and comfortable. Jeremy understands that at the core of youth work is the concept that we walk beside young people, giving them the support they need until they can walk alone. He embodies this every day in the way he shows up for young people.
