On 10 March 2018 the Shire of Manjimup Youth Network hosted a wonderfully successful Young Women Empowered Expo at the Manjimup Indoor Recreation Stadium. The day was attended by over 300 young ladies from the Warren Blackwood region who came to enjoy themselves, learn some new skills and hear messages about how to maintain good mental health, at what can be a very difficult time of their lives.
The expo was held around the Act-Belong-Commit concept which supports mental health by encouraging us to be mentally and physically active as well as enjoying the company of others be it through family, friends or clubs. The activities such as henna art, boxercise, jewellery making, and nutrition workshops were not only enjoyable but also served to give the young ladies ideas on hobbies and activities that can assist in maintaining good mental health. This message was also promoted by presentations from inspirational speakers Amy Coombes, Veronica Bravo and Dr Sarah Youngson.
Shire President Paul Omodei commended the Shire of Manjimup Youth Network saying that "With around one in seven young Australians experiencing a mental health condition, empowering young women to feel included and positive about themselves is indeed a significant tool in the fight against the mental health conditions that are so prevalent in today's society".
"The Shire of Manjimup Youth Network have done an astounding job pulling the day together and this was obvious with the turnout of in excess of 300 young women."
The day was a great success with many young women and parents commenting on the quality of the speakers and how inspiring they found them. Veronica Bravo, singer, producer, songwriter and former X Factor, contestant took the time out after her performance to sing harmony with some of the young ladies present while Amy Coombes also took time after her presentation to speak to several girls who were currently experiencing difficulties in their lives. Headspace and Relationships Australia were also present to take the opportunity to let the girls know how to access support if they needed.
The Shire of Manjimup Youth Network would like to thank the organisations, people, local businesses and members of the community who got behind the event and so generously donated their time, products and energy to make the day such a success and to make a difference, there are far too many to list individually.
If you or a loved one is experiencing mental health problems contact your GP or one of the many services available:
South West Mental Health 9782 1444
Headspace 6164 0680
Lifeline13 11 14
WA Country Health Service9757 3547