Community Comes Together for the Launch of ‘In My Shoes’ During Harmony Week

community comes together for the launch of ‘in my shoes’ during harmony week

On Thursday 20 March 2025, The Skill Engineer Ltd. proudly launched In My Shoes, an innovative digital storytelling initiative empowering young people from culturally diverse backgrounds to share their stories and perspectives through film and podcasting. The event was held at The Hub, Erina, and formed part of the broader Harmony Week celebrations – a national recognition of Australia’s cultural diversity and shared values of respect and inclusiveness.

Supported by the Multicultural NSW COMPACT (Community Partnership Action) Program, In My Shoes brings together young people aged 12–30 with local creatives and mentors to build media skills, explore identity, and create powerful stories that strengthen understanding and unity on the Central Coast.

The launch was attended by community members, young creatives, and representatives from across the region. Guest speakers included Maggie MacFie, CEO of The Skill Engineer Ltd.; Lucy Wicks, Liberal candidate for Robertson; Daniel Nour, Digital Media Officer (Community Resilience) at Multicultural NSW; Chad Partridge, Central Coast Council; Beth Bolte, Central Coast Community Council; Anannya Bandaru, Founder of Kalpa Vruksha; Amro Mohi, Videographer; and Grace Nguyen from Services Australia.

“The In My Shoes project embraces the rich diversity of young people on the Central Coast, empowering them to unite against fear and division and champion community harmony,” said CEO Maggie MacFie. “We thank everyone who joined us to celebrate Harmony Week and the beginning of this exciting journey.”

Guests enjoyed a Harmony Lunch catered by Indie Delights, showcasing Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Remaining food was generously donated to Kalpa Vruksha, a local not-for-profit supporting the community.

The Skill Engineer Ltd. extends its thanks to all those who attended and supported the event, and congratulates the Skilled Creative team and Creative Director Mike McCarthy for their efforts in delivering a meaningful and memorable celebration.

Stay tuned for upcoming workshops and the end-of-year Multicultural Short Film Screening, where the voices of local youth will take centre stage.

In My Shoes is a digital storytelling initiative that gives young people from culturally diverse backgrounds the opportunity to share their stories through media production. Guided by professional mentors, participants gain hands-on experience in filmmaking, podcasting, and digital storytelling.

For more information visit In My Shoes.