

headspace is Australia's National Youth Mental Health Foundation, providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds. They provide mental and physical health support, helping young people during critical times to get back on track and lead fulfilling lives.
We are proud to be long term partners with headspace, raising funds for the headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation through the sale of our reusable canvas tote bag. 50 cents from every purchase of our reusable canvas tote bags is donated directly to headspace.
We spoke to nY NRG Members Fox and Annie and asked them a few questions.
What does 'Pushing Forward' mean to you?
Fox: For me, to push forward is to be involved in the change you want to see. To be continually acting on it, no matter how small it is. Small progress is still progress.
Annie: To me, pushing forward means continuously engaging in what you are passionate about. It's about celebrating both small and big victories. I aspire to play a role in enhancing policies and systems so that all Australians feel supported in their mental well-being.
What keeps you motivated to continue pushing forward for the causes that matter to you?
Fox: The people in my hY NRG co-hort at headspace keep me motivated. All of us have reasons to be pushing for better mental health services and every single one of them brings a new perspective to the table. I am so motivated to make change because I know that I'm making change with them by my side.
Annie: The drive and dedication that each hY NRG member at headspace demonstrates in sharing their lived experiences to ensure young people have access to high-quality mental health interventions is truly inspiring. Their commitment reminds me of the profound impact our work has on real lives, and it is this impact that keeps me motivated.
How can we support each other better as a community to push forward for change?
Fox: The best way to support anyone, no matter their cause, is to listen without judgement. Listening to one another is the best way to hear what supports one might need or want for their change.
Annie: In my opinion, the best way to support each other as a community is to check in with others and genuinely listen. Everyone has unique and interesting lived experiences, and the most impactful way to foster change is by hearing a diverse array of perspectives on what the community needs.
How can we get more young people involved in pushing forward for change?
Fox: To involve the next generation and get them motivated about creating change, we have to empower them and let them know that they can do it! You don't have to have power to voice the change you want to see. Let this generation know that we stand with them and support them on their voyages of change.
Annie: The best way to involve young people is to empower them and help them recognise their strengths. There is a misconception that change can only be affected by those with certain powers, privileges or positions, but this is not true. Young people bring fresh and relevant insights based on their lived experiences. By instilling confidence in their abilities, we can create powerful change and amplify their voices.
What makes collective action so powerful for Generation SG?
Fox: Making change with others with a common goal is so powerful as you can share the experience with them. Knowing that you're not alone in your pursuit for change, certainly in my experience, has made such a positive image and has kept me motivated to continue my voyage of change.
Annie: Collective action is powerful because it harnesses the strength of a shared goal and understanding, making it more visible and impactful. Youth mental health is important and collective action can bring about larger changes in our policies and systems.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT headspace: https://headspace.org.au/