Youth photography exhibition backed by Swinburne research

A photography exhibition supported by Swinburne research is exploring young Victorians' perspectives on health and wellbeing while they are experiencing housing instability.

The ‘Our Voice, Our Health’ exhibition, open from Wednesday 28 February to Friday 2 March at Lilydale Lakeside Campus, is a Photovoice research and advocacy project.

The exhibition uses photographs and stories to illustrate the health-related needs, strengths and values of young people who have experienced housing instability in the greater Melbourne area.

Photovoice is a community-based, participatory action research method that documents community strengths and vulnerabilities using photographs and story and aims to promote dialogue among the community and policymakers in a novel way. 

 “There needs to be better awareness of the values, needs, and service delivery preferences among young people who experience housing instability,” says lead researcher, Swinburne lecturer Dr Jessica Mackelprang.

“We hope this project contributes to that awareness.” 

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It’s a healthy environment for everyone, not just because it’s food, but it’s a place for people to let go and gather and talk about stuff,” study particpant on their photo 'Sense of Community.' 

The project photographers are eight adolescents and young adults who have accessed services through Anchor, an organisation in Melbourne’s outer east that supports homeless and unstably housed people to re-engage with education, employment, and relationships in order for them to maintain health and thrive.

 Make the most of what you experience in the past and do better. So, if you’ve done some bad stuff in the past, just make yourself better in the future,” study particiapnt on their photo 'Past.Present.Future.'

“Photovoice photographers want to convey their messages to people who can help make change,” says Dr Mackelprang.  

“For example, mental health providers and general practitioners aren’t always aware of the resources available for young people in terms of housing and psychosocial support. The group suggested that strengthening connections between services might prove beneficial.”

“In addition to identifying ideas for change, Photovoice photographers highlighted that organisations, such as Anchor, are valued by young people in the community. It’s great that we can shine a light on that.”

The ‘Our Voice, Our Health’ exhibition is now open, for more information contact: photovoice@swin.edu.au

Wednesday 28 February - Friday 2 March

Location:

The Atrium at the Lilydale Lakeside Campus
Building LA - Jarlo Drive
Lilydale, Victoria 3140

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