by FIlmInk Staff
A short documentary and original music video created by a group of multilingual young people will launch this Refugee Week on ABC.
Developed through a series of arts workshops run by not-for-profit organisation Same Drum in partnership with Healthway and the Intensive English Centre at Aranmore Catholic College, the films celebrate friendship, family and resilience through storytelling and music.
Same Drum facilitator Rita Yousif said the program gave young people a powerful platform to share their stories in their own way. “This program creates a safe and creative space for young people to express who they are, connect with each other and work as a team,” Ms Yousif said.
“The stories and music they’ve created reflect their strength, their cultures and their sense of belonging.”
Healthway CEO Colin Smith said Healthway was committed to supporting initiatives that kept young people connected and engaged, driving better long-term health outcomes for
the community. “This program highlights the important role creativity plays in supporting young people’s wellbeing,” Mr Smith said.
In the documentary, Live and Learn, a group of young women rebuilding their lives in Australia share powerful stories of courage, identity and hope. Through a series of interviews and an original soundtrack, the film explores themes of belonging and perseverance.
While the music video, Rock Paper Scissors, is performed in multiple languages and delivers a unifying message about connection across cultures. Six professional artists collaborated with the young people, including singer Rita Yousif, who was previously a student at the Intensive English Centre.
The theme of Refugee Week 2026 is A Million Stories. Each story is unique. Each one is powerful. And together, they shape the Australia we all call home today.
Watch the films on ABC iView from 6am 12th June 2026.
LIVE AND LEARN https://iview.abc.net.au/show/live-and-learn
ROCK PAPER SCISSORS https://iview.abc.net.au/show/rock-paper-scissors
Same Drum’s youth arts program is supported by WA Government and the Australian Cultural Fund.
For behind-the-scenes photos and information on future releases you can follow the program at www.samedrum.com
