Yassmin Abdel-Magied.

The Edgy Advisors are a group of young people gathered together by the State Library of Queensland to assist in developing The Edge, a $7.9 million State Government development to create a dedicated space for young people at the Cultural Centre.

Edgy Advisor, Yassmin Abdel-Magied, 2007 Young Muslim Australian of the Year and founder of the charity Youth Without Borders, is playing an important role in providing ideas for the project.

Yassmin took a few minutes out from her busy schedule after returning from the 2020 Youth Summit in Canberra to share her thoughts on The Edge and the role of arts and culture in the lives of young people.

How are you finding being an Edgy Advisor?

It is an awesome experience. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It is not everyday that someone of my age is given the chance to help and advise in the development of a major project! Especially an institution or a space that is so sorely needed by young people.

Being involved with the State Library of Queensland where The Edge is located and meeting all the people involved has been wonderful. I am truly honoured.

What have been your most valuable experiences as an Edgy Advisor?

Working as an advisor in such a huge process has been enlightening as it has allowed me to see all the stages a project goes through, from conception to launch. I have also become aware of all the facets and factors one has to take into account when developing such a space.

Importantly, I have learned to work within a group that has a large age range – from 10 to 19 years – and I have been humbled by the ideas of those around me. I have learned the true importance of consultation.

What role do you see The Edge playing in the lives of Queensland's young people?

Similar to the pivotal role Queensland Museum South Bank, Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), State Library of Queensland and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre play in the lives of Queenslanders as areas of cultural diversity and importance.

I believe The Edge has the potential to do the same for Queensland's youth. I think it will extend out to more than just youth who are already culturally active, but attract those who have an interest in everything artistic - even those who have no connection with the arts whatsoever, simply because it will become so iconic.

What is your vision for The Edge?

I believe being involved in the arts and social justice issues has allowed me to create a broad knowledge base, as well as a broad contact base. This has helped me to think of the widest range of people who may be interested or who the Edge should cater for and how to achieve this.

I see the Edge as being a hub for youth around Brisbane and Queensland and a model for other states and countries. I see it being a hub for cultural, artistic, relationship-based, technological and social learning and encouragement. The idea itself is unique and I hope it pays off.

Do you think the fact young people have been able to have such a strong voice in planning The Edge means it is more likely to succeed?

Oh most definitely. Consultation is underrated in today's society, especially with youth and minority groups, so the fact youth are being consulted already means that is project has a higher chance of succeeding.

What have been some of the most interesting ideas put forward by The Edgy Advisors?

I quite like the idea of having an open air auditorium on the top, or maybe a space for people to chill out, or something similar. Other ideas include having one of The Edge's walls as a large public art display...there are simply so many ideas! I am so excited about it all.

What impact do you think taking part in arts and cultural activities has in shaping who you are?

Arts and culture are a huge part of who I am. Although I am studying engineering and love the technical part of things, arts and culture give me the freedom to express myself in a way I feel comfortable. It gives people the space to be who they truly are – shout it out and be proud! Arts and culture are also pivotal in bringing people together because they transcend all racial and prejudicial barriers.

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