Hawaiian Ride for Youth
Participating in the Hawaiian Ride for Youth was a profoundly moving experience. The journey from Albany to Perth was not just about the physical challenge, but about connecting with young individuals and sharing stories of resilience and hope.
During our visit to the WA College of Agriculture Narrogin, I had the opportunity to speak with students about overcoming adversity. I shared the story of how, in my early 20s, my house caught fire, and my husband suffered life-threatening burns. One of the key strategies that helped us navigate this challenging time was the goals list we had started at 17. This list served as a constant reminder of our dreams and the future we envisioned, motivating us to persevere.
I also introduced the students to the Pollyanna game, a practice of finding the good in every situation, which I believe strengthens a growth mindset.
Witnessing the students' engagement and hearing their aspirations reaffirmed the importance of open conversations about mental health and the power of goal-setting. The Hawaiian Ride for Youth continues to be a beacon of support for youth mental health across WA, and I'm grateful to contribute to this meaningful cause.
Encouraging the students to articulate their dreams and set clear goals, I emphasised:
"Every single one of us here on this Earth is for a purpose. So dream whatever you want to dream, get it visible, share it with people, because when it's really tough those guiding lights of those dreams and visions you have are a magnet that keep you going."