Computer Clubhouse Leadership Group
Since 2001 the Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse has
provided a creative and safe after-school learning
environment, where young people from marginalised
or disadvantaged backgrounds work with mentors to
explore their own ideas, develop skills and build their
self-confidence through the use of technology. The
Fitzroy Computer Clubhouse is a member of the Intel
Computer Clubhouse network (ICCN) and is a project
of Boston’s Museum of Science in collaboration with
the MIT Media Laboratory.
With over 160 members aged 10-18, the Fitzroy
Computer Clubhouse not only provides access to highend technology, but also provides a space for young
people to learn collaboration, cooperation and “giving
back”, which encourages them to succeed in education
and careers and contribute to the larger community in
a positive and meaningful way. The Fitzroy Computer
Clubhouse runs Monday to Friday during term time.
The Computer Clubhouse welcomes Clubhouse
alumni Mike Zegeye, Abenezer Yohannes and Joseph
as new Clubhouse volunteer mentors for 2012. The
willingness of Clubhouse alumni to stay connected to
the Clubhouse and give back to their community is
a testament to the impact the programme has on its
member’s lives.
The Youth Voices program run on Mondays for teens
only continues to create outstanding work to be shown
10
Computer
Clubhouse
to the wider community. In term 4 2011 youth voices
participants worked on designing “the perfect library”.
A field trip to the State Library of Victoria was very
inspirational and the term concluded with the work
being exhibited at Fitzroy Library. Members work was
exhibited once again at the Gertrude st Project Festival.
Term 1 in 2012 was a busy term with many teenagers
preparing for Intel Computer Clubhouse Network
Teen Summit selection. The Teen Summit takes place
on campus at Northeaster University in Boston,
Massachusetts, and includes a college and career fair,
collaborative activities with youth from around the
world, and many other opportunities for educational,
career and personal growth. Three teens from each
Clubhouse are selected to attend the Teen Summit with
all expenses paid by the organisers.
Teens from the Computer Clubhouse created a project
on the theme of “Diversity”, completed an application
form, attended a two day leadership workshop at
NAB Docklands and attended an interview with
the Coordinator, a volunteer and member of the
community. All the member’s hard work culminated
in “Project Diversity Night” where volunteers,
members and family were invited to see the projects the
applicants had made and recognise them for their hard
work. Congratulations to Achol Manyiel, Ror Akot
and Ayel Akot who were chosen to attend the Teen
Summit.
Fitzroy Learning Network Annual Report 2011/12