A BORDER music program is working to give young people a headstart in the music industry.

The project is called Youth Empire Albury-Wodonga and was started by Grace Sharon, from St John’s Anglican Church.

Ms Sharon said it gave youth the opportunity to communicate in ways they often could not voice.

“The concept is to help youth and young people of Wodonga have a future in the music industry because it is really difficult to break through,” Ms Sharon said.

Wodonga Council and the state government funded the $20,000 program.

The project is working with a record label from Cairns called Malosi Entertainment, which provides training and insight into the industry.

During youth week, 10 young people from the Border took part in workshops in voice, instruments and DJing — learning from professionals from across the country.

On Saturday, Ms Sharon sat down with them to find out how they could be supported into the future.

“I wanted to interview youth one-on-one to see what their needs were in music, what they want to learn and what their hopes were,” she said.

“We have a practice room where we will look at lessons for these kids because a lot of them can’t afford lessons.”

Malosi Entertainment chief executive Lester Seiuli also spoke to those involved.

Mr Seiuli said the label had been building studios to help young people with employment and mental health.

“I brought 49 kids from Cairns down last year and then when we arrived in Wodonga, they saw kids who were at the point where they started, it was like they saw a mirror image of themselves,” he said.

“It started out as developing the kids’ skills on a practical level then seeing if there are any jobs available for them.

“But then it stemmed into mental health and helping them.”

Ms Sharon said she was hoping to take on more young people, depending on funding.

“The goal is to embrace as many young people in Albury-Wodonga as we can in the music scene,” she said.

People want to know more can contact Ms Sharon on 0458 191 009.