The Western Bulldogs popular youth leadership program The Whitten Project commenced in Ballarat last week with a formal launch at the Ballarat Art Gallery hosted by City of Ballarat Mayor Des Hudson, Deputy Mayor Belinda Coates and Interim CEO Frank Dixon.

The four month program will include fun and interactive workshops designed to inspire and educate participants on themes such as leadership, communication, goal setting, resilience, civic engagement and support networks.

15 local young people were selected from a pool of over 40 applicants to participate in the four month program delivered by the Bulldogs in partnership with City of Ballarat.

Whitten Project Manager Mark De Campo told the gathering that the Club is committed to developing a culture embracing people and the community.

“We are extremely proud of our title as “the AFL’s Community Club” and utilise our brand as a vehicle for positive change, he said.

“The Club see young people as a critical part of the future and understand the importance of investing in and retaining young people to drive innovation, economy and community wellbeing.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with City of Ballarat through The Whitten Project and look forward to providing opportunities for local young people to develop their skills and reach their potential.”

The Bulldogs will work closely with City Of Ballarat to provide platforms for participants to connect, contribute and grow as leaders in their community.

The Whitten Project has been delivered to western region Melbourne since 2013 but this is the first time the program has been offered in Ballarat.