More Than Just a Workshop

More Than Just a Workshop

A simple request from a young person shifted my entire perspective on our mental health advocacy's reach.

The next generation isn't just listening—they're turning mental health advocates into role models worth emulating.

When young people see mental health conversations as normal rather than taboo, we're moving in the right direction.

Small actions compound into significant cultural shifts.

Yesterday was a humbling day.
I had the privilege of running three workshops at Aldercourt Primary School with the Grade 5 and 6 students, impacting 57 bright young minds. At the end of the session, something unexpected happened.
One of the students asked for my autograph.
At first, I hesitated, thinking she was confusing me with our co-facilitator, a professional Olympian who is often asked for autographs. But, no, she insisted.
She wanted MY autograph.
Confused but moved, I signed it and she ran off with a smile.
Her teacher, overhearing the conversation, turned to me and said, “You are famous in their eyes.”
And in that moment, I realised something the work we do through It’s Okay Not To Be Okay is making a difference.
The kids see the message we’re spreading, and they see us the cofounders as a part of something bigger than ourselves.
A small grassroots charity started by three sisters from the Mornington Peninsula in honour of their brother has now touched so many lives.
Mental health is something we should all be able to talk about openly, and I’m so proud of the impact we’re making.
Thank you to Aldercourt Primary, the student who asked for my autograph and to all the students who participated with such enthusiasm.
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