Born out of Uniting’s long-term commitment to stronger communities, Becoming U is one of three place-based initiatives invested in by Uniting. This approach brings together young people, community members, local services, partners, and government to collaborate, innovate, and create lasting change — shaped by the voices of those who know the community best.

Becoming U partner with a diverse range of local people and organisations to strengthen our communities and help the young people of Toormina and the Nambucca Valley thrive. Becoming U’s direction, programs and mentorship are shaped by local voices and tailored to the real challenges faced by young people in the places they live. 

Through creative projects, strong mentorship, and meaningful community connections, we help young people build resilience, grow their leadership, and shape brighter futures for themselves and their communities. 

What is a place-based approach?

A place-based approach targets the specific circumstances of a place and engages that unique community and a broad range of local organisations from different sectors, as active participants in their development and implementation. 

The key to effective change starts here:

Community-led:
We co-design solutions with youth and community to build connection, wellbeing, and opportunity.

With, not for:
We back young people as community contributors, supporting them to lead the change.

Better together:
We build partnerships across community, services, business, and government to strengthen local support.

Systems change:
We improve the environments around young people, guided by community priorities.

Adapt and evolve:
We learn, adjust, and grow — using failure as fuel for better impact.

Want to learn more about how we’re creating change? Head to our Projects page and find out what we’re working on currently.