City of Newcastle has cemented its support of the future leaders of the Hunter through an Economic Development Grant to Hunter Young Professionals (hyp).

The funding will enable over 1,400 young professionals across the region to share in opportunities and resources to further their personal growth and professional careers. Founded in 1993, hyp is celebrating 25 years of developing and retaining young leaders in the Hunter so that they can contribute significantly to the local business community.

hyp President, Lauren Armstrong said the funding will ensure hyp continues to thrive for the benefit of all Hunter young professionals.

“We are so thankful to City of Newcastle for recognising the contribution that young people have in the community through this grant,” Lauren said.

“Young professionals have a growing impact on industries and organisations locally, and in 2018 it is our mission to help our members discover the ways in which they can have a meaningful contribution –in their workplaces, in their professional relationships and in the community.

“The funding from City of Newcastle will enable the hyp Board to build on the organisation’s legacy by formalising the vision, values and needs of our members and to set strategic goals for the future. The grant will see new developments such as a new website, member survey and many more networking events and skill development workshops.

“Our Board is made up of young professionals who volunteer their time to the ongoing longevity and success of the organisation, and this show of support from City of Newcastle further validates this important work.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the funding is an opportunity to invest in the future leaders as Newcastle goes through a period of great change and innovation across the city.

“As Newcastle emerges from being a great regional centre into a smart, liveable and sustainable global city, it’s an exciting time to be a young Novocastrian professional,” Nuatali said.

“City of Newcastle is proud to be partnering with hyp, who are playing such an important role in ensuring that our future leaders are given the opportunity and support they need to thrive as our city’s future leaders.”

The next hyp event will take place on September 26 at The Beach Hotel and will see industry guest speakers present on how leadership can guide us to be better humans. $1 from every ticket sold at all hyp events throughout the year will be donated to hyp’s 2018 community partner, Lifeline Hunter Central Coast.

hyp is a network for like-minded young professionals to network in a business environment, gain new management and leadership skills, and interact socially while supporting the local community. Membership is free.

IMAGE | From left to right: hyp Vice President Madeleine Tiedeman, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, and hyp President Lauren Armstrong.