Local farmer and drought coordinator Sally Downie has been appointed a steering committee member for UNICEF's NSW Youth Summit on Living With Drought.
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And she's urging other young people in agriculture to nominate to be part of the conversation.
"As a young person working in the drought space I have noticed the lack of recognition of how drought affects youth," Sally said.
"I'm often the youngest in the room at events or discussions on drought. It's not because youth don't care, it's because they feel that they can't be involved.
"Youth need to be involved as it is their future we are working towards, and they also see drought from a different perspective. So involving them gives a more comprehensive look into drought."
The ongoing dry conditions are taking their toll on the agricultural community.
"I have heard them speak with hope about what they will do once it breaks or what they could do with funds from a drought loan," Sally said.
"I've also heard pure heartache: starving stock, having to sell all the stock they own, crops failing, the list goes on.
"On a more personal note, I think of the financial pressure and no sign of income on the bank statements - and a once booming enterprise now a mere shadow of itself."
Sally is hopeful the forum will give farm kids a few much-needed days off, but she hopes it goes further too.
"I also know those that attend will leave knowing they aren't alone in this, that other young people are going through similar things to them and they have a support network," she said.
"Youth will gain skills and confidence from this summit to be further involved in drought discussions so that will continue to benefit themselves and our industry into the future.
"Ultimately I hope it brings change, not just talk. We've talked enough about drought. We need action."
Young people aged 14 to 24 are invited to apply or find out more online at www.unicef.org.au/droughtsummit
The NSW Youth Drought Summit will be held at Point Wolstoncroft Sports and Recreation Centre, Lake Macquarie from October 9 to 11.
Venue costs and travel costs to the will be covered. Applications close on Friday, 30 August at 11:59pm AEST.