The 2017 edition of Momentum, a publication produced by The Youth Network, was officially launched on Wednesday.

It is a magazine written by youth, about youth, and for youth.

About 20 students from Launceston high schools and colleges took part in the eight-week program, guided by Examiner staff.

The end result is a representation of the bright future that Northern Tasmania has in store, held strong by these young adults.

Young people today often get a bad rap – they’re quickly branded as being all consumed by technology and smashed avocados.

But this group of young people has proved that that stereotype is not true.

The next generation that will drive Launceston and Tasmania is one that is intelligent, compassionate, and talented.

The faces behind Momentum are many and varied.

They are a true reflection of the breadth of interests that today’s young people hold.

We are shown that they care not only about their immediate social circles, but their greater community, and the many sectors that make up a vibrant community.

We can discover that they want to improve not only their immediate futures, but the long-term futures of their community, city, and state.

We are proved wrong when we make sweeping statements that write-off today’s teenagers, biased perhaps by looking back at our own youth years through rose-tinged glasses.

Our role is to prepare and equip our next generation, as best we can, to ensure that they are able to reach their potential.

Furthermore, our role is to prepare and equip them so they are able to help our community continue to reach its full potential, as one that fosters growth, encourages learning, and embraces innovation.

As you move through greater Launceston over the coming days and weeks, please, keep your eyes peeled for a copy of Momentum, or read it online at Examiner.com.au.

It is a fabulous showcase of what our young people are able to achieve, and shows that we have such a strong future ahead of us.

It is a result that we and they should be truly proud of.