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Glimpse into Workshop Sessions Youth Insearch sessions are what our workshops are based around. Our life skills sessions provide young people with practical skills to improve their lives, and are run by our extensively trained Youth Leaders. Our group counselling or ‘hassle sessions’ provide a safe space for young people to talk about what is concerning them in their lives, and are run by our specially trained Adult Leaders. Here is a glimpse into the life skills sessions as told by Jo Horvat – one of our highly valued and experienced Youth Leaders.
SESSIONS the sessions all address different topics, but it’s the conversations that evolve in the sessions that make Youth Insearch so effective. Really the program works so well because each person in the room brings their own experiences and perspective to the discussion. THE SELF-ESTEEM SESSION, for example, starts off with everyone on chairs around the edge of the room in a circle. The facilitator runs through things like the definition of self-esteem, what it means to have your self-esteem broken – whether by yourself or others – and why it might happen. EVERYONE IN THE ROOM can share their experiences and what selfesteem means to them. This open conversation really helps everyone identify with the topic on a personal level, but also fosters empathy and understanding between each other. SKILLS TO BUILD UP SELF-ESTEEM are covered in the sessions, and because sessions are interactive, the young people often come up with ideas themselves about how to address their own self-esteem issues. The participants may be there to learn, but they also teach us about how to help them – we just need to listen and communicate right.
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MUSIC IS INCLUDED as a way for young people to connect with the topic. We try to select the right song for each session we plan, because the effect of music can really help to open up the conversation, get everyone thinking, and break down barriers. Music is so powerful in the sessions and can sometimes have a bigger impact than words alone. ACTIVITIES ARE UNIQUE to each weekend workshop and each session. The activities help young people really connect with the topic, as they are given time for self-reflection before a broader group discussion. WHY THE SESSIONS WORK SO WELL, I’d say that getting through to a young person really starts with firstly understanding how they think about things, how they feel, and what they’ve experienced. Sessions give us the context and the topic, and although they’re planned and structured, they’re also flexible allowing for an organic and open discussion. AFTER EACH SESSSION everyone has a break to eat, get outdoors, or socialise with each other. The friendships built during the weekend extend beyond home time on Sunday and are one of the benefits that young people take away with them.
