Their messages resonated strongly with our students, sparking meaningful conversations about strength, identity, and mental wellbeing.
On Wednesday, 22 Year 9 to 11 students had the incredible opportunity to attend the Zero2Hero In Your Head Mental Health Youth Forum, a powerful event designed to inspire, educate, and equip young people to be mental health leaders in their communities as well as learn strategies for supporting their personal mental health.
The forum featured compelling keynote speakers including Caitlin Bassett, former Australian Diamonds netball captain, and Harry Garside, Olympic boxer and mental health advocate. Both shared deeply personal stories of resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of seeking support and having healthy coping strategies.
A standout moment was the performance by 3NA, an Indigenous hip hop group using music to raise awareness about mental health in First Nations communities. Their performance was not only energetic and engaging but also a powerful reminder of the role culture and creativity play in healing and connection.
This experience comes at a timely moment as we look ahead to R U OK? Day in Week 8. This national day of action reminds us all to check in with those around us, not just on one day, but every day. The conversations sparked at the forum will help shape how we approach R U OK? Day this year, with a renewed focus on empathy, listening, and creating a safe space for all students.
We are committed to building a culture where asking “Are you ok?” is not just encouraged, but expected, and where every student knows they are seen, heard, valued and supported.
Mrs Rebecca Weddikkara
Director of Pastoral Care
