Ross Dickson, APA Committee Member and Youth Representative

I joined the APA last year with a view to helping local youth. I have lived in Artarmon all my life I attended Artarmon public school and a local high school. I now own and operate a hair salon in Artarmon call Hair on Wilkes which has won many business awards and 2nd place in a world title cutting championship.

In February 2007 I organised the initial Artarmon Star Search that was a great hit for kids in the area. Since then other areas of the north shore have run the same program.

Due to the success of the first Artarmon Star Search, we have formed a youth committee which will be running Star Search 2008, starting in February.

The committee and I have great ideas for kids programs and events for the next year. And we would like to know what you think we need in the area for youth. Please let us know - email me on haironwilkes@hotmail.com, or drop in and say hi at Hair on Wilkes.

Genevieve Faulkner-Firth

I graduated from Monte Sant Angelo Mercy College in 2005. I am currently studying Commerce and Liberal Studies at the University of Sydney, where I am majoring in Economics and Work & Organisational Studies.

I have lived in Artarmon for 11 years, and believe that the APA Youth Committee will provide a good opportunity to create a greater sense of community amongst, and encourage involvement from, the young adults within the Artarmon area.

Previously a member of the Willoughby Youth Council, I bring experience gained as the elected Secretary for both 2003 and 2004. I look forward to seeing the APA Youth Committee grow, and can't wait to get the 2008 Artarmon Star Search up and running!

Lauren Allison

In 2006 I graduated from one of Sydney's leading music schools after studying for my Bachelor of Arts in Popular Music and Performance. Now I am full time Drummer and Guitarist who is currently playing in several touring Sydney bands. I also teach Drums and Guitar privately in Artarmon which is great because I get to see the wealth of talent Artarmon holds first hand.

I have lived in Artarmon since the age of 3 and while I was growing up, I was a part of the bike gangs and street crews in Artarmon. All the kids used to play together, but you don't get that anymore. I joined the Youth Committee after being a judge at this year's Artarmon Star Search because I loved getting involved with a project which brought the community together. I think we definitely lack activities in our area which target the youth, so starting a committee to bring together not only children, but also young adults, I think is the way to go. Projects like Artarmon Star Search will not only highlight the talent in our area, but will also give the youth a means of meeting each other and developing social skills. We will also tackle the 18+ market by organising nights out, and maybe even a concert here or there.