I’m keen to be involved in the Mental Fitness Program as I know it is a community engagement initiative that could have greatly assisted a younger version of me who struggled with managing their mental health and wellbeing. As a young person who found it difficult  to balance their wellbeing through the shift from teen to adulthood, I know how valuable access to education and advice on how to support mental wellbeing is. The opportunity to contribute to sharing this knowledge and helping other young people manage this period in their life is immensely rewarding and allows me to give back to the AIS support programs which have helped me throughout my journey as an elite athlete.

I hope I’m able to help destigmatise conversations around mental health and supporting young people through difficulties in managing their mental wellbeing. On reflection of my own journey through young adulthood and elite sport I know programs such as the MFP could have helped me better understand and manage my mental health, as well as equipped me with practical tools and strategies to build resilience during difficult times. I hope delivering this program will provide this support for other young Australians.