Year 12 student leaders from Catholic schools across the Parramatta Diocese have gathered for the annual LIFTED Student Leaders Forum, exploring contemporary issues affecting young people today.
Held at West HQ, the forum provided senior student leaders with the opportunity to engage in dialogue with diocesan leaders, encouraging conversations about identity, technology, the mission of the Church and their experiences of Catholic education.
The day began with a shared breakfast and icebreaker activities, allowing students to connect with peers from other schools, build new relationships and share experiences from their own school communities.
This year's forum centred on the influence of social media, artificial intelligence and contemporary beauty culture. Guest speaker Joy Adan challenged students to reflect on how digital trends - including AI-generated imagery and ‘looksmaxxing’ - can shape perceptions of identity and self-worth.
Facilitated table discussions exploring topics such as identity, freedom, ethics, relationships and the role of artificial intelligence in everyday life, encouraged students to respectfully share diverse perspectives.
“The greatest gift of the LIFTED Student Leaders Forum was the opportunity to listen to one another,” said Eleanor Bonwick, Catholic Youth Parramatta Manager. “In a world so full of noise, we often forget to pause and simply be present with others.”
The second session of the forum invited students to reflect on their own faith journeys and experiences of Catholic education. Guided by Fr Peter Williams AM, Vicar General of the Diocese of Parramatta, students engaged in open discussions about their understanding of faith, the mission of the Church and the relevance that it holds in their lives.
“It was insightful to hear students share their genuine experiences of Catholic schooling and the current challenges faced by their generation,” said Hannah Griffin, Catholic Youth Parramatta Facilitator.
“The students voiced their opinions, challenges and gratitude, and were evidently passionate about enhancing the experience of Catholic Schools in Parramatta for generations to come.”
The annual LIFTED Student Leaders Forum continues to provide an important platform for student voice, empowering young people to engage in meaningful conversations and help shape the future of Catholic education in the diocese.
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Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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