Welcome to the IMPACT Gold Coast Youth Summit

We are building a better tomorrow

Registrations are NOW OPEN for our May 2024 program!

What’s IMPACT all about…
Be inspired • Build Resilience • Create Hope • Transform your Future

Featuring over 20 speakers, workshops, immersion programs and entertainment, this unique TED-X style event is open to Gold Coast youth.

Held over two days, IMPACT will bring together young people from all cultures, identities and abilities to connect, learn and leave inspired!

If you live on the Gold Coast and are aged between 15 and 24, then IMPACT is for YOU!

May 31 – June 1, 2024: Limited availability.

 

Why attend IMPACT…

Hear from brilliant speakers, take part in unique workshops, join in our immersion excursions and be entertained by Sheridan’s Studio 1 Hip Hop Crew and a performance by Chan Po Ching.
Workshops include:

  • Mental Health & Wellness
  • Environment & Sustainability
  • Resilience
  • Leadership & Entrepreneurship 
  • Economic Future
  • Social Impact & Volunteering
  • Equality and Inclusion
  • Conservation & animal rescue and research
  • Arts, culture and heritage

Build self-esteem, leadership skills and empowerment and have a voice on things that matter to your future.

Meet some of our sensational IMPACT speakers...
Seamus Evans

This Australian media super star will share how through acceptance, passion and determination you can overcome adversity and build resilience in all areas of your life.

Be inspired to conquer the world as he shares his triumphant journey in overcoming the challenges associated with Tourette Syndrome to work in TV and pursue a career in the public eye.

Natalie Cook OAM

Olympic Gold Medallist, 5-time Olympian and International Award-Winning Wellness Coach, Natalie Cook is now motivating and inspiring others to fulfil their dreams and squeeze all the goodness out of life.

Marco Renai

Marco Renai has been declared the 2024 Australian of the Year for Queensland Mr Renai established Men of Business Academy which trains at-risk boys. He is known filling lives with the power of unconditional love.

Bronte Langbroek

Born and raised on the glittering shores of the Gold Coast, Sea FM’s morning sensation Bronte Langbroek’s journey has come full circle as she now co-hosts the lively 90.9 Sea FM breakfast show, Bronte & Lakey for Breakfast. With her infectious energy and unwavering passion for her hometown, Bronte shares a zest for life and living with passion.

Chang Po Ching

The ‘Voice’ TV sensation! Chang is a singer, songwriter and recording artist that has travelled the globe sharing his music and talent both on national platform and TV.
Chang has inspired thousands, sharing his story of being born with one eye, coming from bitterness to better-ness, a story you won’t want to miss!

Don’t miss your chance…

Here are some FAQ's

Do I have to be a Gold Coast resident to apply?

Yes, you have to live on the Gold Coast to be eligible for the 2024 IMPACT Gold Coast Youth Summit.

What is the dress code to attend IMPACT?

Neat casual, no thongs or singlets.

How do I get selected to attend?

There are limited places, so get your registration in early for our 2024 program.

Do I have to pay for anything if selected?

No, all IMPACT participants are sponsored by our amazing supporters. Daily snacks, lunch and drinks are all included.

IMPACT Gold Coast Youth Summit Patron...

“It’s very exciting to have launched this pioneer program last year and to bring it back to the Coast again in 2024.
I believe in the power and potential of youth to create solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time”

Angie Bell MP Federal Member for Moncrieff
Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education
Shadow Minister for Youth

The IMPACT Team
IMPACT Founder and Executive Program Director Karen Phillips - Gold Coast Citizen of the Year 2018

Australian Young Citizen of the Year Award recipient.

Karen has over 30 years advocating for youth empowerment, delivering youth
initiatives, and working with the community and corporate entities on youth programs.
She holds both corporate and community leadership and board roles and is a highly sought-after international speaker and educator in youth leadership, brand and pathways for women in business. Karen is Executive Director of Women in Business Australia and in 2023 launched the UAE Chapter.

Catherine O’Sullivan

Catherine holds a Master in Public Policy, Government from the Australian and New Zealand School of Government (ANZOG); and a Bachelor of Arts and Diploma of Education, English and History from the University of New England. Catherine
started her career as a qualified secondary high school teacher, English subject master, deputy principal and Principal. She has built her career on developing, implementing and championing innovative education strategies in school, government and private sector roles. She is currently a director of CG Spectrum, an online education provider in animation, film and games. She is also Chair of the
Gold Coast Salvation Army Fundraising Board. Catherine is the chair of the St Hilda’s Foundation and Salvo’s Door Knock Appeal Gold Coast Breakfast. 

James Kennett

James Kennett has over forty years of entrepreneurial experience in founding and successfully developing businesses in the technology sector. He is regarded as a pioneer in the Low Earth Orbit space and Internet of Things (IoT) industries. He has served on the Boards of the Queensland University of Technology Business Advisory Committee, and of their Centre for Satellite Navigation, and has also
completed a Research Masters Degree in IT there. Additionally, he has served on the Board of Griffith University’s Centre for Microwave Studies, and is a current member of the University of Southern Queensland’s ICT Business Advisory Committee. He has founded or chaired youth leadership programs and was Chair of International Youth Year for South East Queensland.

IMPACT Supporters…

IMPACT Gold Coast Youth Summit is proudly supported by a collective of passionate organisations and individuals committed to our future generation’s wellbeing and empowerment.

PRINCIPAL PARTNER

DIAMOND PARTNER

GOLD PARTNERS

PROGRAM PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

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