On Saturday, 26th October 2024, a transformative event took place at 41 Hunter Street, Parramatta, bringing together young African Australians and representatives from the NSW Police for a powerful dialogue on community, trust, and collaboration. Organised by the African Australian Advocacy Centre (AAAC), the African Youth and Police Engagement Meeting was a timely and crucial initiative aimed at fostering social cohesion and tackling some of the most pressing issues facing African youth today.
The event welcomed a vibrant and diverse group of participants including high school students, university students, and young professionals who came together with law enforcement representatives to engage in open, honest, and solution-focused conversations. At the heart of the discussion were concerns around racial profiling, online hate crimes, and youth radicalization, all of which disproportionately affect African communities and often go underreported or misunderstood.
Rather than focus solely on challenges, the session emphasized building mutual understanding and trust, creating a safe space where young people could share their lived experiences and be heard directly by those in positions of authority. NSW Police officers listened attentively, addressed tough questions, and provided insight into their ongoing efforts to improve community engagement and cultural responsiveness.
The event served not only as a platform for dialogue but also as a catalyst for collaborative problem-solving. Ideas were exchanged on how to improve youth-police relations, with many calling for more proactive community policing, increased visibility of African Australians in police recruitment, and educational campaigns on digital safety and civic responsibility.
This groundbreaking meeting underscored the power of youth agency and community partnerships. As one attendee shared, “We’re not just here to be listened to,we’re here to be part of the solution.”
With events like this, the AAAC continues to lead the way in empowering African youth, bridging divides, and promoting an inclusive vision of justice and public safety where every voice matters.
Be heard. Be part of the change.
