By JESSE GRAHAM
AN EAGER Badger Creek teenager has been recognised for his work and named alongside dozens of other inspiring Victorians in a new government book.
Michael Hardinge, 19, was one of 60 Victorians who had their stories featured in Inspiring Stories by Young Victorians, a book launched by the government on Monday 29 September.
In Inspiring Stories, Mr Hardinge told his story about working with FReeZA volunteers to organise and run live music events, before establishing his own business – Momentum Studios – in 2013.
He said that he had always aspired to do cinematography, and was now working on a number of projects, including contracted videography work with Channel 9 and sound recording for musicians.
Mr Hardinge said he was excited to be part of the book.
“There’re a lot of people in there who are inspiring and do a lot for their community,” he said.
“It’s special to have my story featured in there with some amazing people.”
The book was launched by Minister for Youth Affairs, Ryan Smith, who said the young people like Mr Hardinge were ‘leading the way’ in a number of government programs, such as FReeZA, and forging their future.
“It is a privilege and an honour to read the stories that these young people have written and to reflect on how our programs are making a real difference to young people’s lives,” Mr Smith wrote in the forward to the book. Mr Hardinge, who is completing Year 12 at Lilydale Heights, said that he was still using the skills he gathered through the FReeZA program as he met new clients in his business.
He said his tip for others wanting to get into the same industry was to stay inspired and focused.
“Just keep making stuff – don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do anything,” he said.
“Young people are capable of doing whatever they want, and they should show the older generations what they are capable of.”
To download a copy of Inspiring Stories by Young Victorians, visit www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au.
