It's been all go as young people have geared themselves up for the 2002 Capital Teen Convention, an annual celebration of mission events in youth culture.

Over 2000 teenagers are gathering in central Wellington and the region on 1 and 2 June for a weekend of non-stop activity.

A talent quest is at the Michael Fowler Centre while skating and sports competitions will be held at Kilbirnie Recreation Centre and the Petone Indoor Sports Centre. There is also a Pool Splash at Porirua Trust Aquatic Centre on the Sunday.

The convention, or CTC as it is popularly known, is a Youth For Christ-run event, involving members of all Christian denominations who sign up to use their talent for praise and celebration.

Convention director Dave Treeby says the weekend centres around young people enjoying themselves. "There is a lot of fun and it's magic. We bring the best items into five concerts at the weekend and they are very special."

Dave says CTC differs from the Parachute concert, in the opportunities it offers observers to take part.

Hard and loud music will be pumping out at Zeal Venue during CTC as a Fringe Stage Music Event takes place with proceeds to Tear Fund causes. Zeal is also the venue of the Big Love Cafe, with money from food and drink sold going to Tear Fund.

Big Love Cafe co-ordinator Murray Shearer says the cafe is run entirely by young people.

"The key workers are in their teens and early 20s, with some volunteer staff who have café experience."

Murray says funds raised have benefitted people in Rwanda, Kosovo and India, with a decision on this year's beneficiary still to be made.

Among the creative work on display during the convention will be the Wearable Art category. Wellingtonians Em Osborne, Kendra Edge and Ngahuia Larsen are making a dress composed entirely of footwear.

"I've only been a Christian for about a year and I think it's awesome. It's got so many opportunities and we're working hard out."

Kendra (17) says she enjoys CTC's art and music displays. "It's good to be able to do something like that and know that it's for God."

Em (20) says the event is great for building young people's confidence as well as bringing churches together.

Ngahuia (17) says the convention is a great event for her and many of her friends.