Posted 10 Dec
MOD. Our Youth Board has just wrapped up its third year and we’d like to share the experiences from our members. This group of young people have different interests, some are at school, some at uni, and some are working. All of them are excited about science, art, and helping to create experiences for young people like themselves.
Who are you?
Hello, my name is Adelina, and I am currently in Year 12, the final year of high school.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
One of the things I have enjoyed most—and what has surprised me—about being on the Youth Board is how much we are encouraged to deliver meaningful input into the development of concepts and exhibitions at MOD. We aren’t just observers; we’re actively involved in shaping ideas, providing feedback, and seeing how our contributions influence what visitors will experience. It has been empowering to see that our perspectives truly matter to significantly guide MOD’s creative direction. Being trusted with that kind of responsibility has made this experience both exciting and insightful.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
For those considering applying to the MOD’s Youth Board next year, my advice would be to embrace the opportunity with an open mind and a willingness to engage fully. Be open to new ideas, don’t be afraid to speak up, and share your unique point of view. MOD is a safe space that thrives on diversity and fresh perspectives, so bring your full self to the table. It’s a chance to learn and mold greater nuances while collaborating with like-minded peers.
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
On a more personal note, scent has a unique ability to evoke vivid memories and emotions. For me, something as simple as randomly catching the natural scent of a friend brings back a flood of special memories. These are often fleeting, yet profound moments shared in conversation or laughter, reminders of the impermanence of time but also of the lasting impressions those moments leave behind. It’s a subtle but powerful reminder of the value of temporary experiences in our lives.
Who are you?
My name is Maddy Healey, and I’m currently working in Sponsorship at the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute while pursuing a Bachelor of Business.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
Being part of the MOD. Youth Board has been an incredible experience. It’s allowed me to connect with amazing people and gain insight into how the MOD. team brings their exhibitions to life. I’ve especially appreciated the supportive and inclusive environment fostered by both the team and fellow board members. Every month, I look forward to the inspiring discussions and the diversity of ideas we share.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
For anyone thinking about applying next year, my biggest tip is to keep an open mind! I’ve loved how every idea and thought is welcomed, even if not all can be implemented. You’re always heard, and your perspective is valued. So, don’t hesitate—just go for it!
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
Every time I smell Daisy by Marc Jacobs, it reminds me of my mum.
Who are you?
My name is Spencer, I’m a PhD student at the University of South Australia Wearable Computer Lab. My research is centred on analysing 3D forest data using VR displays, designing new ways to understand and interact with information. In my spare time I make games and watch movies.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
We’ve had more of a hand in shaping future exhibitions than I’d expected. I found it quite gratifying how seriously our suggestions and feedback are taken by the team. We all get to feel like we’ve left a mark on the museum.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
Definitely do! The youth board has been an amazing experience. I’ve been enchanted by the inner workings of a museum of this scale; seeing the design phases of new exhibits, the clever mechanisms behind the scenes, the logistics and organisation that goes into each space and each event has been illuminating in the best way.
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
The heavy ozone smell of a storm rolling through, mixed with the ambient scents of a garden put me right back to my childhood, sitting by an open window, playing DS games as the rain poured and spending an afternoon in the best way possible. I still try to spend rainy days the same way where possible, ideally with a cup of tea.
Who are you?
My name is Frankie! I’m a creative industries and visual arts student, passionate about supporting and showcasing emerging artists in the Adelaide scene. My creative practice explores printmaking, painting, installation and curation.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
The most unexpected yet welcome part of MOD. Youth Board was changing the way I think about the future, approaching it with imagination, openness and at time a bit of sillyness.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
I would really recommend it! It’s a great way to get out of your comfort zone, meet new people and explore fun ideas.
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
Wood smoke in the chill air – reminds me of my walk home from the bus stops during winter time.
Who are you?
My name is Allyssa. I’m currently doing my Master’s in Communication Design at UniSA.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
I’ve really enjoyed the insight and knowledge the MOD. team shared with us. The passion and motivation is so palpable and uplifting – it makes me want to hold onto my creativity for dear life.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
It’s honestly a no-brainer. It’s low commitment and you’re always walking out of each meeting thinking about something.
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
Walking past fried/BBQ’d foods from outside restaurants always brings me back to the large street food culture back home.
Who are you?
My name is Maximilian Levy, and i’m a 23 year old writer and Bachelor of Arts graduate. I am a passionate advocate for the arts scene in Adelaide and spend my free time writing and organising arts events.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
I have really enjoyed collaborating with creatives of all mediums and backgrounds to craft our final event and discuss future MOD. exhibitions/programs. I did not expect to be so willing to share ideas (I’m a bit shy) but the space is very welcoming for creative output.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
Just be open and willing to express your thoughts and ideas. Don’t be shy, this is a comfortable space for creative thinking, so make sure to get your ideas out there!
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
The smell of lavender always brings up childhood memories, as there was lots of lavender planted near my primary school. I’d smell it every day when I walked to school.
Who are you?
My name is Zoe Purcell, and I am currently in year 11 and focusing my studies on a future in marketing and design at university.
What has been something you’ve enjoyed or has been unexpected about participating in MOD. Youth Board?
Something I enjoyed at MOD was being able to make decisions which really impacted the next years exhibit. Seeing the plans and ideas of what could be, was very exciting and an experience I am really grateful to have been apart of.
What advice would you have for anyone thinking about applying next year?
if you have the spare time go for it!! It’s not much work and a really enjoyable experience where you meet a range of new people and will adapt you own thinking to possibilities you may never have thought of before.
What smell triggers a nice memory or nostalgia for you?
The smell of Hot chips triggers memories of going down the beach with my aunt and watching the sunset.