Turning Challenges into Opportunities: PAYA’s Youth Entrepreneurship Regional Summit in Weipa

When we set out to host the Youth Entrepreneurship Regional Summit (YERS) in Weipa, Queensland, we had planned an interactive two-day workshop, focusing on leadership development and youth innovation, with 15 local youth leaders confirmed to attend. However, as the event approached, unforeseen challenges arose. The passing of two local community members led to many of our confirmed attendees being unable to participate. In moments like these, true leadership and adaptability are tested.

Rather than cancelling, the Pacific-Australia Youth Association (PAYA) chose to pivot, reshaping our plans to ensure that we could still deliver value to the local youth. With the incredible support of PCYC Napranum, we condensed our program into an engaging three-hour session on Saturday 22nd March 2025. Though the format changed, our mission remained the same: to empower young people with skills in leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

The restructured workshop focused on hands-on activities and sports games that encouraged participation, teamwork, and problem-solving. We witnessed young participants stepping up as leaders, making decisions, and guiding their peers through various challenges. Sports drills became more than just physical activities; they became lessons in resilience and fair play. Creativity and technical skills were explored through digital exercises like photography, while discussions on health and wellness reinforced the importance of hydration and active lifestyles. The adaptability of the program ensured that every participant left with a new skill, a new perspective, or a strengthened sense of self-confidence.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience was the overwhelming sense of community. PCYC Napranum not only provided a welcoming space but also extended an invitation for PAYA to return and facilitate future programming. We were proud to distribute welcome packs from our sponsor, North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), and additional stationery to participants, with extra supplies donated to PCYC Napranum for continued community benefit. Our local Weipa leader, Malachai Clements, alongside PAYA Co-CEOs Dominic de Moura McCarthy (Mackay, Australia) and Phillie Julai Marai (Papua New Guinea), led the workshop with passion and dedication, ensuring that every young person present felt seen, heard, and valued.

Despite the unexpected challenges, YERS remained committed to the core values that our generous sponsor, NQBP, stands for: 

Connection – Strengthening relationships with local youth and community groups.

Curiosity – Encouraging young minds to explore new skills and ideas.

Courage – Facing challenges with resilience and commitment to delivering impact.

This experience reaffirmed the importance of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and community-driven engagement. Looking ahead, PAYA is already planning follow-up initiatives, including health and nutrition workshops with local schools and PCYC Napranum. The success of this adapted workshop is just the beginning of our continued commitment to empowering young people in Weipa and beyond.

We extend our deepest gratitude to North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) for their unwavering support. Their partnership has allowed us to foster leadership, resilience, and entrepreneurship among young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Together, we look forward to creating even more opportunities for youth in regional communities.