PLACED TO SPEAK: Creating Space. Claiming Voice

WORDS & IMAGES SOURCE THE PLACE CHARLESTOWN COMMUNITY CENTRE

In every community, stories are waiting to be heard: stories of creativity, leadership, resilience, and connection. Placed to Speak, a new podcast and print series from the Place Based Abilities (PBA) program, is an inspiring new platform created by and for young people with disability to share their experiences, insights, and ideas.

Born from a community-led initiative in Charlestown, this series will give a powerful voice to young people aged 10–25 who are advocates. Through a podcast and print series, we’ll explore themes such as individual stories, identity, social inclusion, and innovation, all through the lens of youth who are actively leading change. shaping a more inclusive and vibrant future. With each episode and article, they will showcase their strengths, celebrate their identities, and highlight the value of inclusive communities where everyone belongs.

This initiative builds on the success of the Place-Based Abilities program, a community program from The Place Charlestown Community Centre, in collaboration with ReadyUp Skills, which offers inclusive, capacity-building activities for young people with disability. With this extension into media, participants are building technical skills, confidence, community connections, and a strong public presence. Through authentic, thoughtful content, this series will invite audiences to engage deeply with stories that reflect the richness and diversity of our shared world.

A Platform for Leadership and Expression

Placed to Speak provides a creative outlet for young people to express themselves on their own terms. It’s a space where lived experience drives storytelling, where young contributors take on roles as hosts, writers, designers, and

Tune In, Read Along, Get Involved

Whether you're listening to the podcast, exploring the print stories, or attending an upcoming event, Placed to Speak will offer a meaningful way to connect with the next generation of change-makers. Their stories will be bold, insightful, and filled with hope, and they are just getting started.

Watch this space for updates on this exciting new venture from the Place Based Abilities Program. There will also be a variety of engaging activities throughout the term. See the schedule below for details. For more information or to connect with us, call or email Rhys at 02 4032 5500 or youthprograms1@ theplacecharlestown.org.au.