When our youth speak, the nation listens

“When we create safe spaces, young people are empowered to share their voices and advocate for their needs”
– Epeli Prescott, Le Va Youth Advisory Group

In early March, Le Va Youth Advisory Group member Epeli Prescott proudly took the stage at the inaugural Youth Mental Health Summit held at Parliament in Wellington.

As part of the Youth-Led Solutions panel, Epeli spoke with clarity, confidence and real mana on the need to strengthen youth mental health in Aotearoa.

Led by Youthline and supported by organisations across the sector, the summit created space for young people to share their perspectives and ideas for change.

Mati Dr Elizabeth Mati, Epeli Prescott, Gemma Elbourne-O’Rourke, Denise Kingi-‘Ulu’ave

Le Va chief executive Mati Dr Elizabeth Mati attended the summit alongside Epeli and fellow Youth Advisory Group member Gemma Elbourne-O’Rourke. They were joined by the Co-Chair of Le Va’s board, Josiah Tualamali’i, who shared closing remarks with attendees.

The event was a milestone moment that brought together young people, sector leaders, researchers, clinicians and government officials for talanoa on one of Aotearoa’s most pressing challenges – how we lift the wellbeing of our youth.

With mental distress among young people increasing both in Aotearoa and globally, it is more important than ever that we listen to youth voices and work together to support them.

For the Le Va whānau, the highlight was watching our young people step up and lead. Hearing Epeli speak with insight and purpose, knowing that his voice, and the voices of young people everywhere, are shaping the decisions that matter most.

The future of youth mental health in Aotearoa will be built in spaces like this – where young people are invited in, and genuinely listened to. Le Va is honoured to be part of this important work.

Learn more about Le Va’s Youth Advisory Group.