ABOUT
Organisation Overview
Organisation Overview
Empowering African youth in Western Australia to thrive and reach their full potential is at the heart of everything we do at AYCSII. We’re a vibrant not-for-profit organization uniting individual from diverse African communities and countries.
Membership
Our dedicated membership comprises individuals from various African backgrounds, ensuring a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. We’re also grateful for our 10-15 volunteer members from different community backgrounds, bringing unique skills and passion to our collective efforts.
Mission Statement
Break the cycle of youth incarceration and empower at-risk youth to reach their full potential through holistic support, education, and advocacy.
Vision
A future where every young person can thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Objectives
- Provide counselling, mentorship, and life skills training to youth in detention centres and at-risk communities in Western Australia.
- Offer educational and vocational programs to help youth achieve their academic and career goals.
- Advocate for policy changes and community support to address the root causes of youth incarceration.
- Foster a supportive community for youth and their families through outreach and engagement programs.
Values
- Empowerment: We believe in the potential of every young person to shape their future.
- Compassion: We approach each youth with empathy and understanding.
- Inclusion: We serve youth from all backgrounds and circumstances.
- Collaboration: We work with community partners and stakeholders to achieve our mission.
Join Us
Join us in our mission to create a brighter future for African youth in Western Australia. Get involved, volunteer, or donate today!
Our Story
The idea of starting a youth program for incarcerated and at-risk African Australian youth began with a grassroots movement in early 2006. Community leaders Dr Casta Tungaraza and activists, concerned about the disproportionate representation of African Australians in the criminal justice system and the lack of support for vulnerable youth, came together to address these issues. They conducted research, consulted with stakeholders, and organized community forums, leading to the formation of a steering committee. This committee, comprising community members, professionals, and former inmates, developed a comprehensive plan to create a program providing mentorship, counselling, visitation in prison, education, and employment opportunities for at-risk and incarcerated youth. The program aimed to break the cycle of reoffending, promote rehabilitation, and empower young people to become positive contributors to their communities. Through persistent advocacy and collaboration with government agencies, organizations, and local businesses, the program secured funding and resources, paving the way for its launch and growth.
We believe that every young person deserves a chance to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our organization is driven by a passion to make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth and to challenge the systemic issues that perpetuate youth incarceration. We are proud of our accomplishments, but we know that there is much work to be done. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we work together to empower young futures.
Context:
Australia has one of the highest rates of youth incarceration in the developed world, with over 1,000 young people in detention on any given night. The majority of these young people are from disadvantaged backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, who are overrepresented in the criminal justice system.
Issue:
Youth incarceration is a complex issue that affects not only the individual but also their families and communities. It can lead to a cycle of disadvantage, with many young people reoffending or experiencing long-term mental health issues.
Our Response:
The organization was established to address youth incarceration and those in detention by providing holistic support through mentorship programs, education, and skills-based training to help break the cycle of incarceration and achieve their full potential.
Focus Areas:
Early intervention and prevention programs to support at-risk youth and their families
Education and vocational training programs for African young people in detention
Counselling and mental health services to address trauma and other issues
Advocacy and policy reform to address systemic issues driving youth incarceration
Partnerships:
We work closely with government agencies, the Organisation of African Community (OAC), Congolese community of western Australia and other relevant African organizations, and local services to ensure a collaborative approach to addressing youth incarceration and at-risk.
Locations:
We operate in several locations across Australia, including urban and regional areas, with a focus on communities with high rates of youth incarceration.