Youth Week WA 2026 officially launched in Capel today at the ‘Wild West Youth Fest’ hosted by the Shire of Capel. The event including an art exhibition curated by young local artists, market stalls hosted by local young entrepreneurs, and performances from talented youth musicians marks the start of a statewide celebration featuring more than 40 events from 10 to 16 April.
Activities this year range from a sensory‑appropriate silent disco and handball showdown to art exhibitions, sports carnivals, yarning circles, live music, a colour run, Polish dancing, and so much more.
Youth Week WA is the State’s largest annual celebration of young people aged 10 to 25, providing opportunities for young Western Australians to share their ideas, discuss important community issues, showcase their talents, connect with their communities and celebrate the social, cultural and economic contributions they make to society.
The week is coordinated by the Department of Communities, supported by four Youth Week WA Ambassadors who promote the initiative and contribute to creative event delivery. The 2026 Ambassadors are Maeson Harvey, Alessia Maio, Regina Ndossi and Joshua Patrick, each bringing diverse experience and insights to the program.
Ambassador Alessia Maio says she became a Youth Week WA Ambassador to step outside her comfort zone, encourage and represent young people who may not feel comfortable voicing their opinions, and grow as a leader while supporting and empowering others.
"Youth Week WA is important because it recognises and celebrates the contributions, voices, and experiences of young people across Western Australia," she said.
"It also provides opportunities for young people to connect with their communities and share their ideas, while fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion."
This year’s theme, Strength in our Stories, highlights the value of diverse experiences and personal backgrounds, and how young people use their values to navigate challenges, drive social change and strengthen their communities. The theme was submitted by young person Jesryl Santos, shortlisted by the Ministerial Youth Advisory Council (MYAC) and selected by the Youth Week WA Ambassadors following a statewide competition.
To support local governments, organisations and community groups in delivering accessible and meaningful events across Western Australia, the Department of Communities has provided more than $152,000 through the annual Youth Week WA Grants Program and grants to the Shire of Capel and the Youth Affairs Council of Western Australia to host the launch and closing events.
For event information and ways to get involved, visit the Youth Week WA website.
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