Integrity Initiative x SolveSquad
When talking about ‘empowering young people’ , we often think of buzzwords, such as “filled with potential” or being the “future leaders” of our communities…but integrity is often not the first idea that comes to mind.
Young people are the leaders of today, not just tomorrow. They are filled with integrity, compassion, and determination, even in a world that doesn’t make it seem like this is the reality.
Integrity Initiative is one movement leading the way forward in the area of lived experience, dedicated to dignity and human rights in mental health conversations and care by delivering interactive workshops, providing curated care packages, and committed to community engagement. Built from the ground up, from nothing more than lived experience, passion, determination and refusal to remain passive to injustice.
Oftentimes, young people experiencing mental health challenges face invalidation and dismissal. What’s more, the challenges they experience are often layered - not simply the result of a single determinant but often diverse experiences.
Which is why the Integrity Initiative exists. Through understanding first-hand, meeting people where they are at, and bridging the gaps between often siloed systems and services. They take a practical and thoughtful approach; through action, consistency, lived experience expertise, and peer values.
Young pioneer and founder Rachael Burns offers some words of encouragement to young people:
“In the moments when no one believes in you, when you don’t believe in yourself, and silence feels easier...return to your values. And know this: someone out there believes in you.”
To find out more about the amazing work of Integrity Initiative and to support them through donation, partnership, volunteering or in other ways, check out more here or contact Rachael directly at rachael@integrityinitiative.com.au