Ronny Kareni is a special person for many reasons – several years living as a refugee and asylum seeker in Papua New Guinea have embedded an enthusiasm and passion in his soul. Ronny brings many superb qualities and skills to his new role as a Youth Worker in the Youth Engagement Team at Capital Region Community Service. Importantly, Ronny sees creative expression as a means of telling his story and he uses this medium to work with young people in our local community. Since his first days at CRCS, Ronny has worked at developing collaborative networks, particularly in the music domain, to support young people who show glimpses of musical potential.
Examples include:
– Building the profile of ‘Belco’s Got Talent’ from a basic talent show to a professionally organised pathway for young musicians including linking them to masterclasses and professional networks.
– Giving regular time, advice and space to young musicians to develop their performance styles and techniques.
– Coordinating ‘Lunchbox Acoustics’ Concert for young musicians in Garema Place in partnership with Multicultural Youth Services, Street Uni and City Renewal Authority.
– Using music to mentor and support young people as a form of case work.
Ronny is an amazing new talent to the youth work scene in Canberra, he brings a wealth of musical experience and talent that he willingly shares with the young people he works with. Ronny has enthusiastically immersed himself within the Youth Engagement Team and took action and responsibility from day one – he is now an integral part of the youth music scene in Belconnen and the wider community.