Written by Asha Brierley (Cleveland DSH School student) and Leah Bridges (Redlands College student)
Published in Redland Bayside News (April 2 Edition)
More than 145 community members, including more than 80 high school students, gathered at the Alexandra Hills Hotel for the Redlands Coast Futures Forum—an event designed to inspire and empower the next generation of workers.
Organised by the Redlands Regional Jobs Committee, the forum provided valuable industry insights and connections aimed at broadening the career horizons of young people in the region.
Themed “What’s Next?”, the event encouraged students to think critically about their career paths and how the rapidly changing job landscape in Queensland and beyond will impact their futures.
The forum kicked off with an address from the Honourable Amanda Stoker, State Member for Oodgeroo and Assistant Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training.
Ms Stoker highlighted the success of government initiatives in improving employment opportunities and urged students to pursue careers aligned with Redlands’ values of growth, empowerment, and sustainability.
A key speaker, Dr Stefan Hajkowicz from CSIRO, captivated the audience with a presentation on “global megatrends” and the role of data insights in shaping the future.
Dr Hajkowicz discussed how factors such as climate change, digital advancements, and workforce evolution are reshaping the planet and urged students to stay adaptable and take advantage of emerging technologies like AI to guide their career choices.
Students also had the opportunity to engage with professionals from various sectors, including renewable energy, manufacturing, and sustainable farming.
Industry leaders such as John Kingston from Toyota Australia, Nasir Chowdhury from Golden Cockerel, and Michael Mrowka from REA Global and Renewable Engineering Australia shared insights into the future of their industries and the importance of young people’s involvement in driving innovation and sustainability.
During an interactive Q&A session, students and job seekers asked thought-provoking questions about AI, renewable energy, and city planning.
Kylie Newey from Jobs Queensland emphasised the importance of staying curious in the evolving workforce, saying:
“The workplace you’re moving into needs you to stay curious.”
The event concluded with a visit to the Redlands Research Facility and Fly Farm, where students saw firsthand how sustainability initiatives are shaping the future of the region.
The Redlands Coast Futures Forum left participants motivated and inspired, with many leaving with new connections and ideas to guide their future careers.
The event successfully highlighted the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and innovation, reinforcing the message that young people have a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Redlands region.
