Last year, Year 12 boarder Molly successfully applied to become a member of the NAPCAN Youth Speak Out (NYSO) advocacy group.
NAPCAN is a charity that was set up 30 years ago with the broad remit of preventing child abuse and neglect. It is supported by the Federal Government to run training and workshops aimed at making communities safer for children across Australia. They strongly endorse and support young people in having a voice and being their own advocates for change, and the young people involved directly advise on legislation or policies that affect children and adolescents.
As someone who is concerned with fairness and the wellbeing of others, Molly feels excited and privileged to be part of this small and very diverse advisory team of 16 young people who range in age from 13 years to 25 years.
‘I originally became involved because I wanted something outside of school and study; something I could feel passionately about. It has given me a sense of accomplishment and I feel productive in the work we do,’ said Molly.
The group meets up very frequently online, and in person once a year for a week. They consult and research with other young people remotely. Through this, Molly says she has ‘definitely met people I would never have met before—especially with the diversity of cultures and backgrounds in the group. I’ve learnt a lot about other cultures and ideas. In meetings, people talk about their experiences and identities as Indigenous, transgender, autistic, or about how they deal with having chronic illnesses for instance.’
The group has been involved in advocating on issues around domestic violence, the incarceration of young people and representations in the media. NYSO do their research with guest speakers on these topics and follow up with practical and creative ideas to tackle issues.
Molly said, ‘Everyone in the group wants to keep learning about each other and the world, we are close and united in what we do. Being involved, and having these real-life experiences, makes us better people and gives us confidence about standing up and having a voice.’
Molly has found the experience has shaped her ambitions—she now hopes to study and work in Criminology or Psychology in the future. Being part of this long-term project has given Molly ‘a lot of happiness, new friendships and new ideas.’ She is excited about what the team might be able to achieve in the future and feels privileged and grateful to be part of it.
We are so very proud of you, Molly!
Read more about NAPCAN on their website here.
Image: Molly (far right) with friends Emily and Sophie in Ascham Boarding
Bernadette O’Donoghue | Head of House | Ascham Boarding
