Young people in the Kiama local government area are invited to become digital storytellers through a new community project launching this spring.

The Bugle is partnering with the Community Media Training Organisation to offer two young locals aged 12 to 24 the chance to tell stories about the people who make our region unique.

No journalism experience is necessary - just curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a love for community.

The selected participants will receive free training and mentoring throughout spring, culminating in a series of digital stories to be published in The Bugle this December.

What’s involved

The program begins in September with a visit to The Bugle newsroom to meet your mentor and see how a local paper runs.

In October, participants will take part in four online training sessions with journalist and media trainer Anita Anabel. These sessions cover the fundamentals of journalism, writing for news and social media, interview techniques, mobile journalism, and editing.

Sessions are held Wednesdays from 4:30pm to 6pm on:

October 1 – What is journalism?

October 8 – Writing for news and social media

October 15 – Interview skills and mobile journalism

October 22 – Editing and storytelling

Participants must be available for all four sessions.

In November, participants will work with their mentor to create three short video stories about people in their own communities.

These stories will be finalised and published in The Bugle in December.

Each participant will receive a $150 payment upon publication of their three pieces.

Why it matters

The Know Your Neighbour project is funded by the NSW Premier’s Department and aims to strengthen social cohesion by amplifying diverse voices and highlighting the rich cultural makeup of our region.

“This is a chance for young people to explore the issues that matter to them, celebrate their neighbours, and develop real-world media skills,” says The Bugle’s editor.

How to apply

Send an email to [email protected] by Thursday 22 August with the following details:

Your name

Email and phone number

Age

Location (street and suburb/town)

Cultural background

Confirmation that you’re available for all four training dates in October

Successful applicants will be notified in early September.

All training and mentoring will take place online or in public settings Mentors have current Working with Children Checks. If you need help accessing a device or internet, support is available.

This is a unique opportunity for young voices to be heard - while learning valuable skills and sharing the stories that matter in our community.