SOYA was founded on the initiative His Grace Bishop Irinej, who, in May 2008, called on the Serbian Orthodox Youth of Australia to unite and form a nationwide youth movement. Members of the Serbian Orthodox youth community in Canberra came together with Fr. Seraphim and Fr. Ilija through meetings at the Monastery in Hall and the church hall in Farrer to establish the foundations of SOYA. In June 2008, a committee was elected with the intention of immediately beginning the task outlined in our Mission Statement:

Our mission is to unite the Serbian youth of Canberra under the guidance of our Holy Orthodox Church of St. Sava and patron St. (to be decided).

The Serbian Orthodox Youth Association aims to create and maintain a variety of spiritual, cultural, educational and athletic programs to enrich the souls, minds and bodies of young Serbs.

We believe that with a greater knowledge of their faith, history and traditions; combined with the strong support of a close-knit and active youth community; young Serbs of Canberra will lead healthier, more fulfilling lives; become stronger, more productive members of society and present a positive image of our community, faith and nation to the world around us.

We encourage all Serbs of Canberra and Australia to get in involved in SOYA. Although a committee has been elected and meetings have begun, every new member will be welcome and able to have their say in making decisions. SOYA has begun with big hopes and expectations, but it will fail if it represents only a small section of the community. A big emphasis has been placed on reaching out to ALL members of the Serbian youth, extending beyond the usual groups involved in community functions. Remember:

Samo Sloga Srbina Spasava - Only Unity Saves Serbs