Giving chances with art

The Street University Liverpool
Selfless. Dedicated. Talented

Humble and dedicated Matthew Peet has helped thousands of disengaged young people reach their full potential in his 12 years with the ground-breaking The Street University Liverpool.

Matthew is a youth worker with the non-profit and coordinates creative art workshops for people aged 12 to 25. The art gives them a creative way to express themselves while encouraging them to steer away from anti-social and destructive behaviours.

The workshops, including street art, rap and break-dancing, also harness their artistic potential for future study or employment.

He grew up dealing with many of the struggles young people face and knows from experience that art can change lives.

Over the years, Matthew has witnessed many young people stop taking drugs, reunite with their families and return to their studies after finding purpose through the workshops.

Some have returned the favour by sharing their skills and stories with other young people.

Other workshops offered by the university include photography, Aboriginal dance, podcast, TikTok production and graphic design.

Matthew feels honoured to be nominated as a Westfield Local Hero. “I have always seen the success of the young people as my reward. To be acknowledged is above my expectations, and I hope it will open doors to further develop the program,” he says.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. The Street University Liverpool will use its funds to buy art materials and expand its program to reach more people.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here