The winners of the first AYF Challenge were announced today by the Minister for Youth, Kate Ellis. The AYF Challenge aims to inspire and support fresh ideas about how young people can connect with their communities.

“Young Australians were invited to propose projects that will get other young people engaged in their community, actively address local needs and promote a positive image of young people,” Ms Ellis said.

“The standard of the entries was very high. Young Australians have again shown they have great ideas and the level of innovation and creativity was outstanding.”

The winning entries include projects designed to boost the work and profile of young artists, by creating visual images and biographies that will be available in local cafes.

Another winning project will provide support for young Australian-Afghan men and women to share their stories with their local communities.

A panel of young people, youth sector and government representatives recommended a shortlist of the best ideas, with Ms Ellis deciding the winners.

The 2010 winners are:

(with Ms Florence Muvandi & Ms Elizabeth Lang)

The winners will each receive up to $15,000 to put their ideas into action.

Updates on the progress of the projects will be available on the AYF website over the next six months.

For more information on the Prime Minister’s Challenge, the 2010 winning projects and updates on their implementation over the next six months go to the AYF website: www.youth.gov.au/ayf